With the current UK agricultural and food policy context about to change with the decision to leave the EU, there is a need for the incorporation of novel ‘participatory’ approaches to knowledge production and innovation. The aim of these activities is to strengthen the adaptability and resilience of farmers to manage this change and be profitable and productive.
Facilitated farmer-led or farmer-centric innovation and research initiatives are an important tool for managing this type of radical change. Rural innovation activities support farm and land-based practitioner led innovation and sharing of best practice. This has a direct impact on food safety, animal welfare, environmental benefits and improving biodiversity.
Four examples of our activities are provided here:
Creating a European innovation in agriculture e-knowledge platform. The EURAKNOS Project