GSS EU Science Funding Gateway

Proposals should:

• Develop and test alternative approaches, tools, strategies, agents, and/or substances (either conventional, natural-based, or biological) for prevention (promoting prophylaxis measures) and/or (bio) control of plant pest with improved environmental performance (e.g., reduced effects on non-target organisms, natural resources and the environment) and acceptable efficacy, enlarging the toolbox of integrated pest management (IPM);
• Improve current agronomic, ecological, cultural, and traditional practices to increase the resilience of agricultural production against biotic stresses;
• Assess the social, economic and environmental issues associated with the proposed innovative solution, including trade-offs, the impact on labour, safety culture, and risk management on farms;
• Demonstrate the safety of alternatives in accordance with established scientific risk assessment methodology and relevant EU regulatory frameworks related to their manufacturing and placing on the market.
• Set up demonstration sites in Europe to promote participatory demonstration activities, and the exchange of knowledge and best practices among farmers.
• Support capacity building, training and education enabling farmers/growers to the proposed solution reducing the use and risk of pesticides.