The aim of the project is to open channels of communication and research in the European Union, in particular the 10 new members, about ecological farming. The new EU members have been isolated for a long time due to their respective languages, or as a result of their particular traditions.

The development of ecological farming has been achieved at different levels in these countries because of their national characteristics, and the main aim of Genista’s research is to carry out a survey of their levels of development in ecological farming research and production and to find a way of bringing these countries up to European level.

The work of the project will be divided into three main parts:

1. Catching up with the level of the EU: data

collection and research work on the level of education, production, trade and advisory services.

2. Equalising: education programmes, the graduation of teachers, researchers and authorities.

3. The setting up of research programmes according to demand, at both national and international level.

Organic farming works with the local environment and as a result, local research is required in order to support it.

For example, in conventional farming, soil is made fertile by the standard use of mineral fertilisers. Many farmers neglect the good practices necessary to preserve natural soil fertility.

Organic farmers must work with their soil to improve it.

The production of seed for organic agriculture, which has not been pre-treated with pesticides and fertilisers, is completely lacking in many countries. Research is needed to recommend varieties and develop technologies to produce suitable seed locally.