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Publication of May 12th 2020Report
A survey on the agricultural uses of glyphosate in European countries
Results found in the abstract :
- This report presents the results obtained through a survey on the agricultural use of glyphosate in European countries and proposes a framework for understanding and monitoring glyphosate uses.
Results found in the presentation :
- This report presents the results obtained through a survey on the agricultural use of glyphosate in European countries and proposes a framework for understanding and monitoring glyphosate uses. The total sales of glyphosate are estimated at 46,527 tonnes of a.i. in 2017 across the EU 28+3 ( 28 EU countries + Norway, Switzerland and Turkey ). Overall, sales of glyphosate represent 33% of total herbicide sales in the EU 28+3 : glyphosate is one of the most widely used herbicides in European agriculture. Glyphosate represents 15% to 78% of total herbicide active ingredient sales in the countries surveyed. This report offers a framework for understanding and monitoring glyphosate uses in the agricultural sector, based on the identification of the cropping systems in which glyphosate is used, the agronomic purposes for which it is used and the nature of this use ( from occasional to systematic ). Glyphosate is widely used in annual cropping systems, perennial crops and grasslands. In annual cropping systems, it is mostly used prior to sowing, shortly after sowing of the crop ( at the pre-emergence stage ) or at the post-harvest stage for controlling weeds and volunteers. Annual cropping systems in which glyphosate is used include a large variety of crops ( such as maize, oilseed rape, cereals, legume crops, sugar and fodder beet etc. ). It is also used for the destruction of cover crops, and for ensuring the desiccation of certain annual crops at the pre-harvest stage. In perennial crops ( such as vineyards, fruit orchards, olives groves etc. ), glyphosate is used for controlling weeds within or between crop rows. Finally, glyphosate is used for the destruction of temporary grassland, for local control of perennial weeds in permanent grassland and for grassland renewal. Overall, the survey shows that the herbicide is used for at least eight agronomic purposes. Within the scope for which data could be obtained through the survey, 32% of the wheat acreage, 25% of the maize acreage and 52% of the oilseed rape acreage were treated with glyphosate in any single year; and 39% of the fruit orchard acreage, 32% of the vineyard acreage and 45% of the olive grove acreage were treated with glyphosate. A diversity of non-chemical alternatives to glyphosate treatments can be identified. Their effectiveness, cost and adoption implications for crops and the environment can vary widely, or may not be quantified. They include both preventive measures and curative control measures, such as mechanical and biological control. Different approaches to using glyphosate were identified through the survey. Occasional uses are related to exceptional contexts, such as meteorological conditions or specific farm constraints. Recurrent uses are widespread practices that are already embedded in farming systems. Other agronomic solutions may exist but are not mobilised; instead farmers plan to, and recurrently do, use glyphosate. In the case of systematic uses, multiple inter-related factors may hinder the shift to non-chemical alternatives. These include: limited, and in some cases no, availability of and access to alternative inputs and adapted machinery; constraints and opportunities due to regulations and subsidies; lack of advice, knowledge and references regarding alternative practices; uncertainties, risks and variability in agronomic per for mance and profitability of alternative practices; constraints in farm resources; commercial context; challenges in terms of labour organisation; and cultural and cognitive aspects. Further research is needed to assess the conditions, including the economic and technical aspects as well as systemic contexts, that are required for enhancing the adoption of non-chemical alternatives to glyphosate.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Antier, C., Andersson, R., Auskalnienė, O., Barić, K., Baret, P., Besenhofer, G., Calha, I., Carrola Dos Santos, S., De Cauwer, B., Chachalis, D., Dorner, Z., Follak, S., Forristal, D., Gaskov, S., Gonzalez Andujar, J. L., Hull, R., Jalli, H., Kierzek, R., & al. ( 2020 ). A survey on the uses of glyphosate in European countries. INRAE. https://doi.org/10.15454/A30K-D531
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- Download the report. …
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Results found in the main url :
Results found in the abstract :
- The hereby report provides the solutions identified to address the barriers to crop diversification at each level of the value chains and further discuss the conditions for enabling shifts towards more sustainable food systems.
Results found in the presentation :
- Crop diversification is recognised as a central strategy towards improved productivity, delivery of ecosystem services and higher resilience of cropping systems. Crop diversification thus can help reaching the EU environmental sustainability targets. Although multiple benefits of crop diversification have been proven, the development of diversified cropping systems is still limited. In this context, a detailed analysis of barriers to crop diversification was undertaken based on the analysis of DiverIMPACTS’ 25 case studies, participatory workshops and a literature review. In total, 46 barriers to crop diversification were identified. Barriers occur at different levels: at the farm level; from harvest to retail; at the market level; and in the coordination between value chain actors ( Morel et al., 2020 ). Following-up on this exhaustive identification of barriers, DiverIMPACTS WP5’s team gathered their expertise for identifying direct solutions addressing the barriers. The hereby report provides the solutions identified for the barriers to diversification at each level of the value chain and further discuss the conditions for enabling shifts towards more sustainable food systems. Chapter 1 highlights the strategic axis and concrete solutions identified for addressing each barrier2. Chapter 2 offers an identification of the actors to be involved in the implementation of each solution. Finally, recommendations are provided regarding the implementation of solutions in an effective way.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Amrom, Caroline, Antier, Clémentine, Baret, Philippe, Courtois, Anne-Maud, Farès, M'hand, Hartmann, Perrine, Keiner, Mathilde, Le Bail, Marianne, Mamine, Fateh, Marette, Stephan, Revoyron, Eva, Roiseux, Olivier, Softic, Adi, Sukkel, Wijnand, & Van der Voort, Marcel. ( 2021 ). Addressing barriers to crop diversification: key elements of solutions identified across 25 case studies. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4904532
Results found in files names :
- https://sytra.be/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/diverimpacts-report-solutions-v210601.pdf, . …
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Publication of March 20th 2025Report
Research priorities for the diversification of cropping systems
Results found in the main url :
Results found in the abstract :
- A review of the research outcomes from nine EU-funded projects identifies barriers to its adoption and suggests 17 priorities to overcome current challenges and contribute to supporting an agroecological transition.
Results found in the presentation :
- Crop diversification can enhance agricultural productivity, ecosystem services and resilience in EU farming systems. A review of the research outcomes from nine EU-funded projects identifies barriers to its adoption and suggests 17 priorities to overcome current challenges and contribute to supporting an agroecological transition. Crop diversification – the increase in space and time of in-field crop diversity – is recognised as a central strategy to improve productivity, delivery of ecosystem services ( e.g., biodiversity conservation, water quality preservation, pesticide-free pest and disease control, improved soil quality, and climate change mitigation ) and resilience of cropping systems. It has the potential to boost an effective agroecological transition of EU farming systems. This research brief explores the status of crop diversification and the barriers and opportunities for further uptake, drawing on the indings from nine EU-funded projects since 2017. Key outcomes from the projects include the development of new knowledge, tools, and frameworks, such as typologies of innovation settings and diversification pathways. These typologies reveal that crop diversification can be applied in various contexts, ranging from short and long value chains to both organic and conventional farming. The barriers to the widespread adoption of diversified cropping systems identified by the research projects are related to inputs, knowledge, support and advice, technical, economic, socio-cultural, and organizational aspects. These barriers are context-specific, interconnected, and occur at multiple levels simultaneously along the supply chains. To overcome them, the research brief provides an R&I agenda with 17 priorities, advocating for a coordinated approach to accelerate the uptake of crop diversification in farming systems at the upstream, midstream and downstream of value chains – based on the policy briefs published by the selected research projects along with relevant deliverables, and advice from a Scientific Committee. The recommendations include integrating these research priorities into the next Research Framework Program as well as enhancing the Common Agricultural Policy to better support crop diversification. Three identified key factors for crop diversification to contribute to a paradigm shift towards agroecology are multi-actor participation, strategic scales of action, and relevant size of farms and value chains. Read the report The European Sustainable Agriculture Dialogue ( ESAD ) is a multi-stakeholder plat for m created in 2019 that brings together various actors from across society – including industry, civil society, universities, and research centres – to discuss key topics, exchange views and standpoints, and recommend research needs to achieve sustainable agriculture. The brief was developed in consultation with ESAD members and the authors took their inputs into account in the drafting process. The paper does not reflect the views and opinions of single ESAD members. As such, their contribution is not to be interpreted as an endorsement of the final paper.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Antier C., Baret P. V. ( 2025 ). ‘R&I priorities for the diversification of cropping systems’. Research brief, Institute for European Environmental Policy, Brussels.
Results found in the publication context :
- This briefing was produced in the context of the European Sustainable Agriculture Dialogue ( ESAD ). ESAD is a multi-stakeholder platform created in 2019 and coordinated by IEEP that brings together key actors from across society – including industry, civil society, universities, and research centres – to discuss key topics, exchange our views and standpoints, and ultimately shape decisions toward sustainable agriculture.
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Publication of February 28th 2025Report
Seeds systems and varietal choices in organic vegetable production
Results found in the abstract :
- A case study on seed systems in the vegetable organic sector, regarding small-scale farming in the French Alps. This research examines how the economic, technical, educational and social context influences the choices of farmers when choosing varieties and seeds.
Results found in the presentation :
- A case study was carried out to characterize seed systems that supply the vegetable organic sector, specifically in the context of small-scale farming in the French Alps. The research provides a map of seed systems and identifies the criteria used by stakeholders for their varietal choices. This research then examines how the economic, technical, educational and social context influences the seed choices of vegetable farmers, towards F1 hybrids or open-pollinated varieties. Read the paper Barriers to the adoption of open-pollinated varieties in the organic farming sector: a case study of small-scale vegetable production in France in Frontiers.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Antier Clémentine , Baret Philippe V. Barriers to the adoption of open-pollinated varieties in the organic farming sector: a case study of small-scale vegetable production in France. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 9. 2025. DOI 10.3389/fsufs.2025.1521332 www.frontiersin.org/journals/sustainable-food-systems/articles/10.3389/fsufs.2025.1521332
Results found in the publication context :
- This study was rolled out on occasion of the project led by SOL ( Alternatives agroécologiques et solidaires ), aiming at developing an integrated management system for cultivated biodiversity in the Alpes-Maritimes ( Développer un système de gestion intégrée de la biodiversité cultivée dans les Alpes-Maritimes, 2019-2023 ).
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Results found in the abstract :
- Our team actively participates in European projects with innovative research focused on food systems. Through these projects, we are building strong partnerships across Europe.
Results found in the presentation :
- ONGOING Project TAPELINE Full title: Transitioning to Agroecology through Participatory Learning, Implementation of TAPE Tool, strategizing and Networking, and Enrolment Project type: Co-financed by the EU Duration: April 2025 to March 2028 Overview: Despite significant progress in recent decades, such as the for malization of the 10 principles of agroecology ( AE ) by the FAO in 2018, the conceptualization and implementation of AE in the broader context of food systems at the territorial scale remains anecdotal. The European “Green Deal”, “Farm to table” and “Biodiversity” strategies support this trans for mative change and recognize the crucial role of the territorial scale, but a boost is still needed to spread the adoption of AE principles at this level of scale. As part of the TAPELINE project, we will be working on this dissemination at Wallonia level. Website: [coming soon] INTERCROPVALUES Full title: Developing Intercropping for agrifood Value chains and Ecosystem Services delivery in Europe and Southern countries Project type: Horizon Europe Duration: Novembre 2022 to October 2026 Overview: the project aims to exploit the benefits of intercropping to design and manage productive, diversified, resilient, profitable, environmentally friendly cropping systems acceptable to farmers and actors in the agri-food chain. As a multi-disciplinary and multi-actor project, it brings together scientists and local actors representing the food value chain. It includes 27 participants from 15 countries ( 3 continents ) from a wide diversity of organizations and stakeholders. Website: https://intercropvalues.eu/ ENFASYS Full title: ENcouraging Farmers towards sustainable farming SYstems through policy and business Strategies Project type: Horizon Europe Duration: September 2022 to Augyst 2026 Overview: The project aims to stimulate a just and robust transition to sustainable, productive, climate-neutral, biodiversity friendly and resilient farming systems ( SFS ) by finding effective policies and business strategies that encourage farmers to change their production systems. Website: https://www.enfasysproject.eu/ FOODCoST Full title: FOOD Costing and Internalisation of Externalities for System Transition Project type: Horizon Europe Duration: June 2022 to May 2026 Overview: The project aims to support the transition towards sustainable food systems by proposing a harmonising methodology to calculate externalities in climate, biodiversity, environmental, social and health along the food value chain. Beyond providing instruments for valuation and internalisation of externalities, the project dives into the understanding of barriers impeding the adoption of innovative practices, at both business and policy level. Website: https://www.foodcost-project.eu/ Completed Projects DiverIMPACTS Full title: Diversification through rotation, intercropping, multiple cropping, promoted with actors and value-chains towards sustainability Project type: Horizon Europe Duration: June 2017 to May 2022 Overview: The overall goal of DiverIMPACTS is to achieve the full potential of diversification of cropping systems for improved productivity, delivery of ecosystem services and resource-efficient and sustainable value chains. Website: https://www.diverimpacts.net/
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Publication of July 7th 2023Communication
SCP Conference: Is the protein transition missing a silver bullet?
Results found in the abstract :
- The "transforming consumption-production systems toward just and sustainable futures" conference runs from July 5 to 8 in Wageningen. Both the presentation and conference paper are accessible below.
Results found in the presentation :
- The protein transition is both a subject of political discussion and a hot topic for large companies’ strategy. Presented as a solution to the problems resulting from animal protein overconsumption and overproduction in high-income settings, the appropriation of the concept by actors of various sectors, including the state, market, and non-profit sector, has brought the protein transition to the border between a techno-centric and a politico-centric transition. Based on a comprehensive literature review, we identified i ) a diversity of definitions and interpretations of the protein transition, ii ) the key challenges that it promises to address, and iii ) claims associated with the protein transition outputs., We identified different narratives describing how to proceed with the protein transition ( i.e., the driver of change, the target( s ), and the potential transition pathways ), showing that these narratives are embedded in different scientific paradigms, consisting of varying transition trajectories. A key issue emerging from this process is a lack of integration between the production and consumption side. The protein transition is mainly defined from a consumption perspective, implying a dietary shift from a diet with high animal protein intake towards more alternative protein intake. Only two articles include a production dimension in their definitions. The review allows us to highlight a lack of perspective on the future of protein production, especially animal protein. Articles either focus on consumption-based solutions , including animal-based product replacement or substitution, thus nurturing a consumer-driven protein transition, or on solutions targeted towards developing alternative proteins for feed and food, thus promoting a techno-driven protein transition. Solutions targeted towards an agri-food system transition are rarer. The protein transition is promoted as a solution to three main challenges, namely i ) environmental impacts of protein production and consumption and the overshoot of planetary boundaries, ii ) the need to feed a growing population and provide healthy diets, and iii ) impacts of industrialized and/or intensive livestock production systems. If opting for a consumer and techno-driven protein transition may contribute to the target, we argue that it will probably not be sufficient. Embedding these solutions in a systemic approach, including production and value chains, will be necessary to challenge the current meat regime.
Results found in download buttons :
- Download presentation. …
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Results found in the abstract :
- This study assesses the use of chemical pesticides for animal-based products.
Results found in the presentation :
- Over the last years, several WWF European units launched national consumer Meat Guides. The aim of these guides is to analyse how different kinds of animal products, and some plant-based alternatives, affect our planet, through several environmental indicators: GHG emissions, biodiversity, animal welfare, use of pesticides, use of antibiotics, etc. This study focusses on the use of pesticides of livestock products and plant-based alternatives. It pursues two main objectives : Providing a methodological update on the assessment of pesticides use associated to livestock products ; Assessing the use of pesticides for a series of livestock products and plant-based alternatives, from several countries of origin. Two deliverables are available: A first report was carried out on behalf of several European WWF offices. It comprises all the details regarding the methodological update as well as a first series of results for several livestock and plant-based products. A complementary study for WWF Sweden, which was carried out in the context of the re-launch of the updated Swedish Meat Guide. Based on the same methodological principles, it includes a number of additional animal and plant-based products.
Results found in the publication context :
- This research was funded by WWF European offices, the EU project Eat4Change and the Swedish PostCode funded project One Planet Food. The complementary study with special funding from WWF Sweden.
Results found in download buttons :
- Initial study - Main report. Initial study - Supplementary material. Complementary study . …
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Publication of February 28th 2025Research article
Which types of quantitative foresight scenarios to frame the future of food systems? A review
Results found in the main url :
Results found in the abstract :
- Paper published in Agricultural Systems on the use of quantitative foresight scenarios to help design the future of food systems. Different types of scenarios are identified and methodological considerations are discussed.
Results found in the presentation :
- Access The paper can be accessed on the website of the Agricultural Systems journal ( open-access ) : https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308521X25000101. AbstracT CONTEXT : Quantitative scenarios have become common tools to explore the evolution of agricultural and food systems and their necessary transition towards greater sustainability. Yet, despite the diversity in methods and questions explored, a notable gap remains in methodically categorizing such scenarios. OBJECTIVES : Through reviewing a broad range of studies, this paper aims to address this gap. It pursues two main objectives: ( 1 ) proposing a comprehensive typology classification of distinctive scenario types; ( 2 ) delving into the practical implications that diverse scenario designs bring to the for efront. METHODS : Based on a snowball sampling method, 36 quantitative food system scenario studies were included in the sample and reviewed. A coding process allowed to characterize each scenario based on a set of variables focused on the scenarios’ design process ( e.g. purpose of the scenarios, number of scenarios tested, scale of analysis, consideration of production systems, sectors of interest, considered sustainability dimensions, etc. ). Typology identification involved two iterative rounds of discussion among the authors, based on variables deemed pivotal for distinguishing scenario types. RESULTS : The paper proposes four scenario types of quantitative food system scenarios, centered on the scenarios’ purpose and design process. Scenario types A and B are more normative as they seek to demonstrate the feasibility of a specific scenario or frame the conditions for its feasibility, differing in the number of scenarios tested ( respectively one and many ). Scenario types C and D are more exploratory as they aim to assess the consequences of different scenarios, differing in the number of scenario variables being explored ( respectively one and many ). Besides the proposed classification, the paper discusses important methodological considerations related to scenario design ( e.g. the consideration of multiple sustainability dimensions, the adoption of participatory approaches, etc. ). SIGNIFICANCE : This paper contributes to enhancing coherence across food system for esight studies and helps to ensure that quantitative scenarios are utilized effectively for their intended purposes, such as assessing the feasibility of achieving a goal or evaluating different options.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Riera A., Duluins O., Antier C., Baret P.V., Which types of quantitative foresight scenarios to frame the future of food systems? A review. Agricultural Systems ( 225 ). 2025
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
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Event of July 7th 2023Conference
SCP Conference: Is the protein transition missing a silver bullet?
Results found in the abstract :
- The "transforming consumption-production systems toward just and sustainable futures" conference runs from July 5 to 8 in Wageningen. Sytra will give a presentation on the protein transition and share partial results of a systematic review on the protein transition.
Results found in the presentation :
- The protein transition is both a subject of political discussion and a hot topic for large companies’ strategy. Presented as a solution to the problems resulting from animal protein overconsumption and overproduction in high-income settings, the appropriation of the concept by actors of various sectors, including the state, market, and non-profit sector, has brought the protein transition to the border between a techno-centric and a politico-centric transition. Based on a comprehensive literature review, we identified i ) a diversity of definitions and interpretations of the protein transition, ii ) the key challenges that it promises to address, and iii ) claims associated with the protein transition outputs., We identified different narratives describing how to proceed with the protein transition ( i.e., the driver of change, the target( s ), and the potential transition pathways ), showing that these narratives are embedded in different scientific paradigms, consisting of varying transition trajectories. A key issue emerging from this process is a lack of integration between the production and consumption side. The protein transition is mainly defined from a consumption perspective, implying a dietary shift from a diet with high animal protein intake towards more alternative protein intake. Only two articles include a production dimension in their definitions. The review allows us to highlight a lack of perspective on the future of protein production, especially animal protein. Articles either focus on consumption-based solutions , including animal-based product replacement or substitution, thus nurturing a consumer-driven protein transition, or on solutions targeted towards developing alternative proteins for feed and food, thus promoting a techno-driven protein transition. Solutions targeted towards an agri-food system transition are rarer. The protein transition is promoted as a solution to three main challenges, namely i ) environmental impacts of protein production and consumption and the overshoot of planetary boundaries, ii ) the need to feed a growing population and provide healthy diets, and iii ) impacts of industrialized and/or intensive livestock production systems. If opting for a consumer and techno-driven protein transition may contribute to the target, we argue that it will probably not be sufficient. Embedding these solutions in a systemic approach, including production and value chains, will be necessary to challenge the current meat regime.
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Publication of July 17th 2020Working paper
Can prospective approaches ignite debate on the future of the agriculture and livestock sector?
Results found in the presentation :
- Livestock systems are challenged because of their environmental impacts and in terms of animal welfare. A now classic vision of the transition of the agricultural sector is the substitution of conventional industrial systems by ecological or organic production systems. However, the benefits, difficulties and risks of such a massive substitution are not always evaluated and rationally discussed among actors. We developed scenarios towards 2050 for the livestock sector in Belgium. The objective was to provide actors with a shared framework for discussing transition horizons and conditions and challenges for entering transition pathways. The study provided an analysis of the current diversity of production systems in each livestock sector. Three scenarios were then described: a. a business-as-usual scenario; b. a scenario based on extensive systems and relying on national cereals production for livestock feeding; and c. a scenario exclusively based on organic systems and feed from byproducts. This research was funded by an environmental NGO. While the most alternative scenario ( c ) was chosen in compliance with the NGO’s guidelines, the study also offered a reference scenario ( a ) and an intermediary scenario ( b ). The consequences of each scenario were assessed in terms of environmental aspects, production, export capacities and required changes in food habits. The study was rolled out with a participatory process: actors contributed to the data collection and then had the opportunity to collectively discuss the scenarios and their consequences. A peer-review was implemented in order to strengthen the reliability of the results. Finally, a public presentation of the study was organized and gathered about sixty participants. The responses of farmers’ unions to the release of this study can be analyzed and provide insights on the understanding of such prospective approaches by actors. Several aspects were identified as critical for ensuring acceptance of the study as a relevant framework: 1. proactively offering transparency on the data and the process; 2. maintaining a clear separation between the NGO’s position and the research work; 3. participatory and iterative data collection ensuring a fine-tuned consistency with local context, and 4. having several scenarios presented ( not a normative approach based on a single proposition ). In spite of those aspects, farmers’ unions reactions to the scenarios publication were mostly defensive and focused on supporting the current situation. This questions the possibility of building-up long-term environmental objectives and related policies and operational strategies. In addition, feedbacks were different in the two regions of Belgium, corresponding to two visions of the livestock sector challenging the development of a shared vision at the national level. Keywords: livestock, planet boundaries, climate change, biodiversity, prospective scenarios, participatory approach, farmers’ union. This working paper is intended for publication in a conference in 2021.
Results found in the publication context :
- This working paper is intended for publication in a conference in 2021.
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Publication of January 31st 2020Poster
Conservation Agriculture and glyphosate – Strategies, lock-ins and diversity in the Belgian Walloon Region
Results found in the abstract :
- Is it possible to practice Conservation Agriculture without glyphosate in Wallonia? What are the lock-ins to, and the conditions required for, the development of Conservation Agriculture without total herbicides ?
Results found in the presentation :
- Conservation Agriculture ( CA ) consists of an alternative agriculture system based on the protection of the soil. CA promotes a minimum tillage and soil disturbance, a permanent soil cover and a diversification of crops [1]. In Belgium only 270 ha are under CA practices [2]. The expansion of the system is limited by dependence to glyphosate [3, 4, 5], a total herbicide that may be banned in 2022 [6]. By conducting semi-directed interviews in Wallonia, this study identified two kinds of strategies to build a CA without glyphosate. The first one includes strategies which optimize glyphosate efficiency ( optimal spraying conditions, spray solution composition, low volume technique… ) while the second gathers strategies which replace glyphosate for the destruction of cover crops, volunteers from previous cropping and weeds ( soil working tools, fodder breaks, pasture… ). Farmers use some strategies rather than others based on different trade-offs, which are economic, managerial, institutional, environmental, social or technical. Understanding the interaction between these compromises and the choice of strategies employed allows to define the transition pathways of farmers practicing CA or those who may soon adopt it. References [1] Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. ‘Conservation Agriculture | Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations’. Accessed 6 December 2019. http://www.fao.org/conservation-agriculture/en/. [2] Kassam, A., T. Friedrich, et R. Derpsch. « Global spread of Conservation Agriculture ». International Journal of Environmental Studies 76, n°1 ( 6/08/2018 ): 29-51. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207233.2018.1494927. [3] Wauters, Erwin, Charles Bielders, Jean Poesen, Gerard Govers, and Erik Mathijs. ‘Adoption of Soil Conservation Practices in Belgium: An Examination of the Theory of Planned Behaviour in the Agri-Environmental Domain’. Land Use Policy, Soil and Water Conservation Measures in Europe, 27, no. 1 ( 1 January 2010 ): 86–94. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.landusepol.2009.02.009. [4] Vankeerberghen, Audrey, and Pierre M. Stassart. ‘The Transition to Conservation Agriculture: An Insularization Process towards Sustainability’. International Journal of Agricultural Sustainability 14, no. 4 ( 1 October 2016 ): 392–407. https://doi.org/10.1080/14735903.2016.1141561. [5] Morelle, Max, and Jérôme Braibant. ‘L’Agriculture de Conservation En Wallonie : Diversité et Verrouillages’, 2018. [6] Phytoweb. ‘Glyphosate’, November 2019. https://fytoweb.be/fr/produits-phytopharmaceutiques/usage/utilisateur-professionnel/glyphosate.
Results found in the publication context :
- Presented at the 25th National Symposium for Applied Biological Sciences ( NSABS ) on 31 January 2020 at University of Liège in the campus of Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech.
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the poster. Download the abstract. Download the master's thesis in French. …
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Publication of August 18th 2020Poster
Coexistence of cooperative models as structural answer to lock-ins in diversification pathways: the case of the Walloon dairy sector
Results found in the presentation :
- The recent evolutions of the Walloon dairy landscape raises questions in terms of coexistence. The last decade has seen new cooperative models emerge. Structurally, they differentiate themselves from the historical dairy cooperatives by moving away from vertically integrated logics. They aim to provide higher revenues to farmers through owning operations at various levels of the supply chain, a differentiated quality of milk and high added-value productions. Their members include not only farmers, but also milk processors and consumers. Our research aimed at better understanding which perspectives these new cooperative models shape for the sector as a whole and in terms of diversification of the dairy productions. ( understood as the extension of the range of commodities produced ). Based on a combination of the multi-level perspective and institutional approaches, we consider dairy cooperatives as an institution acting as a structure of collective agency within a specific socio-technical coherence. We studied qualitatively the justifications, governance practices, institutional rules, and sets of interactions of the mainstream dairy cooperatives and the new cooperative models to grasp pathways of coexistence and the complementarity of development models. Our results show that the current Walloon dairy landscape brings up lock-ins related to the diversification of the milk processing pathways. The lock-ins are internal to the mainstream dairy cooperatives ( related to their governance structure ) and relate to the organization patterns of the dairy value chain. The new cooperative models define innovative ways of distributing the added value along the value chain. They include relationships with the mainstream dairy cooperatives, but externalize from them part of the payment to the farmers, as well as the risks associated with the exploration of diversification pathways ( in particular diversification pathways based on the development of value chains relying on a milk holding specific features, like geographical origin, modes of production, for example organic, GMO-free, grassland-based. These new organizational patterns allow a milk processing economy in -between the small-scale short food supply chains and the large-scale industrial milk processing. Our research suggests that a combination of cooperative for ms acting at various levels of the value chain can be a key to a differentiated development of the dairy sector.
Results found in download buttons :
- download the poster. …
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Publication of May 8th 2024Report
Scenarios and case studies for a sustainable transition of the Belgian food system
Results found in the abstract :
- Study for WWF Belgium proposing two scenarios for the future of the Belgian food system
Results found in the presentation :
- The objective of this current study is to contribute to a sustainable transition of the Belgian food system and agricultural sector. To do so, a two-step approach is identified : Developing prospective scenarios to assess and compare potential pathways for the Belgian food system. Based on a multidimensional assessment comprising productive aspects as well as environmental and socio-economic impacts, this first step allows to get a better understanding of possible changes that would allow the Belgian food system to move towards greater sustainability. Analysing a series of case studies and their possible transition pathways. This second step allows to embed the proposed scenarios in real-life situations, to get a better understanding on the possibilities for a practical implementation of scenarios and to focus on specific transition trajectories, which are not often assessed in prospective approaches. This study mainly focuses on the first step of the approach. It presents and discusses the methodology and results towards obtaining prospective scenarios for the Belgian food system. The second step is addressed from a more theoretical perspective, proposing a methodology towards the development of case studies aimed at the implementation of transition pathways. All the data and supporting variables used to run the model are compiled in a supporting document.
Results found in the publication context :
- This study was conducted in collaboration with ILVO, at the request and with the financial support of WWF and the EU funded Eat4Change project.
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Event of March 10th 2020Conference
How can current farming systems contribute to provide sustainable and local food?
Results found in the abstract :
- How to measure the social and environmental footprint of our food habits? Which are the land use opportunities for more sustainable and local food systems? How can vegetable production at the regional level meet these challenges?
Results found in the presentation :
- This conference will introduce: The PARCEL online application, that can be used by local actors for assessing the consequences of agricultural modes of production and food consumption and to design scenarios for the transition of agricultural systems and land use changes at the regional level. The results of the study carried out by UCLouvain on the vegetable sector in Wallonia: its cropping systems and the current organization of the sector, as well as three prospective scenarios towards 2050. The presentations will be followed by a discussion on the relevant tools for thinking and implementing transition dynamics. Christophe Alliot and Sylvain Ly are the founders of Le Basic, a consulting agency. Since 2013, Le Basic focuses on production and consumption patterns, their social and environmental impacts, and assesses the societal costs linked to these impacts. Le Basic developed the PARCEL application in collaboration with FNAB ( National Federation of Organic Agriculture, France ) and Terre de liens. Learn more about Le Basic : www.lebasic.com Learn more about Parcel : www.parcel-app.org
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the program ( FR ). Download the report ( FR ). Download the presentation ( FR ). …
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Publication of July 15th 2020Research article
A framework for monitoring Glyphosate use in the European agricultural sector
Results found in the abstract :
- This article provides data on glyphosate use in European countries from 2013 to 2017 and proposes a framework for monitoring the herbicide's uses.
Results found in the presentation :
- Monitoring pesticide use is essential for assessing farming practices and the risks associated with the use of pesticides. Currently, there are neither consolidated, public data available on glyphosate use in Europe, nor a standardized categorization of its major uses. In this study, data on glyphosate sales and use in Europe were collected from multiple sources and compiled into a dataset of the agricultural use of glyphosate from 2013 to 2017. The survey shows that glyphosate represented 33% of the herbicide volume sold in Europe in 2017. One third of the acreage of annual cropping systems and half of the acreage of perennial tree crops received glyphosate annually. Glyphosate is widely used for at least eight agronomic purposes, including weed control, crop desiccation, terminating cover crops, terminating temporary grassland and renewing permanent grassland. Glyphosate use can be classified into occasional uses—i.e., exceptional applications, triggered by meteorological conditions or specific farm constraints—and recurrent uses, which are widespread practices that are embedded in farming systems and for which other agronomic solutions may exist but are not frequently used. This article proposes a framework for the precise monitoring of glyphosate use, based on the identification of the cropping systems in which glyphosate is used, the agronomic purposes for which it is employed, the dose used and the rationale behind the different uses.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Antier, C.; Kudsk, P.; Reboud, X.; Ulber, L.; Baret, P.V.; Messéan, A. Glyphosate Use in the European Agricultural Sector and a Framework for Its Further Monitoring. Sustainability 2020, 12, 5682.
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
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Results found in the abstract :
- This study looked at the potential for an organic supply of canteens in Wallonia ( Southern Belgium ). It compared the demand from Walloon canteens with the production potential of organic farming in the Region. It includes prospective projections towards 2021 and 2025.
Results found in the presentation :
- In the framework of the Walloon Green Deal for Canteens, questions have emerged regarding the quantities and availability of organic products in the Walloon Region and possible evolutions in the supply of canteens. The study shows that for bread, potatoes, fruit, dairy products, eggs and poultry meat, reaching a supply of organic products of regional origin of 10% in 2021 and 20% in 2025 should be possible in terms of quantities ( in accordance with the trends of increasing organic areas ). For vegetables, the available quantities vary according to the types of vegetables. Although the volumes needed to supply canteens with 10% to 20% should be available for the majority of products, such a change represents a significant challenge due to the temporality of the change in supply channels. In addition, particular attention must be paid to the additional cost of raw materials. The results of the study are presented in more detail in the attached documents ( in French ).
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Publication of May 15th 2024Research article
A method to account for diversity of practices in Conservation Agriculture
Results found in the presentation :
- The paper is available in Open Access. Conservation Agriculture ( CA ) is actively promoted as an alternative farming system that combines environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Three pillars define CA: ( i ) minimum mechanical soil disturbance, ( ii ) permanent soil organic cover, and ( iii ) species diversification. The local context, constraints, and needs of the farmers influence the translation of the pillars into practices. Currently, there is no method for categorizing this diversity of CA practices, which hampers impact assessment, understanding of farmer choices and pathways, stakeholder communication, and policymaking. This paper presents a systematic method to identify and categorize the diversity of CA practices at the regional level, anchored in the three pillars and based on practices implemented by CA farmers. The classification method is grounded on the intersection of an archetypal analysis and a hierarchical clustering analysis. This method was used to study CA practices in Wallonia, Belgium, based on a survey of practices in a sample of 48 farmers. Combining the two clustering methods increases the proportion of classified farmers while allowing for the distinction between three CA-types with extreme and salient practices, and two intermediate CA-types comprising farmers whose practices fall between these references. The study reveals that three explanatory factors influence the implementation of CA practices in Wallonia: ( i ) the proportion of tillage-intensive crops and ( ii ) temporary grasslands in the crop sequence, and ( iii ) the organic certification. These factors lead to trade-offs that hinder the three pillars of CA from being fully implemented simultaneously. This new classification method can be replicated in other regions where CA is practiced, by adapting input variables according to context and local knowledge.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Ferdinand, M.S., Baret, P.V. A method to account for diversity of practices in Conservation Agriculture. Agron. Sustain. Dev. 44, 31 ( 2024 ). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13593-024-00961-9
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
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Publication of November 28th 2014Research article
Role of input self-sufficiency in the economic and environmental sustainability of specialised dairy farms
Results found in the abstract :
- What are the structural characteristics necessary for the self-sufficiency of specialised dairy farms located in the grassland area? What are the relationships between input self-sufficiency, environmental and economic sustainability?
Results found in the presentation :
- Increasing input self-sufficiency is often viewed as a target to improve sustainability of dairy farms. However, few studies have specifically analysed input self-sufficiency, by including several technical inputs and without only focussing on animal feeding, in order to explore its impact on farm sustainability. To address this gap, our work has three objectives as follows: ( 1 ) identifying the structural characteristics required by specialised dairy farms located in the grassland area to be self-sufficient; ( 2 ) analysing the relationships between input self-sufficiency, environmental and economic sustainability; and ( 3 ) study ing how the farms react to a decrease in milk price according to their self-sufficiency degree. Based on farm accounting databases, we categorised 335 Walloon specialised conventional dairy farms into four classes according to their level of input self-sufficiency. To this end, we used as proxy the indicator of economic autonomy – that is, the ratio between costs of inputs related to animal production, crop production and energy use and the total gross product. Classes were then compared using multiple comparison tests and canonical discriminant analysis. A total of 30 organic farms – among which 63% had a high level of economic autonomy – were considered separately and compared with the most autonomous class. We showed that a high degree of economic autonomy is associated, in conventional farms, with a high proportion of permanent grassland in the agricultural area. The most autonomous farms used less input – especially animal feeding – for a same output level, and there for e combined good environmental and economic per for mances. Our results also underlined that, in a situation of decrease in milk price, the least autonomous farms had more latitude to decrease their input-related costs without decreasing milk production. Their incomes per work unit were, there for e, less impacted by falling prices, but remained lower than those of more autonomous farms. In such a situation, organic farms kept stable incomes, because of a slighter decrease in organic milk price. Our results pave the way to study the role of increasing input self-sufficiency in the transition of dairy farming systems towards sustainability. Further research is required to study a wide range of systems and agro-ecological contexts, as well as to consider the evolution of farm sustainability in the long term.
Results found in approaches and methods :
- Economic performance, Environmental footprint, …
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the article. …
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Publication of March 29th 2013PhD thesis
Systemic analysis of innovation processes in banana systems in the Great Lakes region
Results found in the presentation :
- The agrarian systems of the Great Lakes region ( Rwanda, Burundi and Kivu ), one of the most densely populated on the continent, are characterised by small family farms where banana cultivation constitutes an agronomic, food, economic and social pillar for households. Faced with major challenges such as lack of production means ( labour for ce, degradation of soil fertility ) and diseases ( banana bacterial wilt ), farmers must innovate to overcome these constraints. Using a systemic and comprehensive approach developed and constructed over the course of the research , this thesis analyses the innovation processes at work in the region’s agricultural systems. The results highlight the diversity, complexity and efficiency of small-scale farming. Taking these elements into account throughout the research process has made it possible to understand farmers’ strategies and to overcome the negative perceptions ( archaism, incompetence ) that too often weigh on them, in order to recognize their capacities. This study demonstrates the potential of a bottom-up and systemic approach to innovation in relation to the solutions that are most often exclusively technical and are carried by numerous national and international players. Two action- research projects, one in microfinance and the other in plant pathology, illustrate the usefulness of this type of approach and the interest of the methodology developed. This interdisciplinary thesis contributes to legitimizing an alternative path that is more relevant for tomorrow’s agriculture while questioning the role of the research er in agricultural research for development.
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the thesis in French. …
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Results found in the presentation :
- This paper examines the impact of European Union ( EU ) regulations on socioeconomic and environmental externalities within the agri-food sector. As part of a broader evaluation, led by INRAe, under the EU FOODCoST project, it analyzes a selection of policies directly affecting producers, covering areas such as the use and management of GMOs, pesticides, fertilizers, fisheries, animal health and welfare, and the Common Agricultural Policy ( CAP ). The findings, derived from a comprehensive literature review, expose the main policy instruments mobilized, their economic mechanisms, and their impacts on externalities within three domains: environmental, social and economic. The whole report, presenting a systematic evaluation of public policies contributing to the internalization of externalities in the food systemss -including at processors, retailers, and consumers levels- at the scale of the European Union and in four specific countries is available on the EU repository CORDIS. For e more info about the FOODCoST project: https://www.foodcost-project.eu/ This analysis lays the foundation for exploring the actual outcomes and implications of current policies on externalities in the EU food and agricultural sectors.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Baret, P., Borniotto D., and Courtois, A.-M. ( 2023 ). Policy instruments to internalize externalities along the food chain at the European Union level. Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium. FOOD Costing and Internalisation of Externalities for System Transition: FOODcoST.
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Publication of November 30th 2022Communication
Open position in Feb 2023 for a PhD candidate [CLOSED]
Results found in the main url :
Results found in the abstract :
- Position from February to October 2023 for a PhD candidate. You will participate in a research about multi-actor coordination in the context of agroecological transition, develop research skills and frame your own research topics in order to apply to a 4-years PhD scolarship.
Results found in the presentation :
- APPLICATION TERMS Please send your cover letter and curriculum vitae combined in a single electronic file, by email to anton.riera@uclouvain.be with the title [Recruitment Sytra Research 2023] followed by your surname and first name, no later than 15 January 2022. POSITION This position is an opportunity for you to develop scientific skills and prepare your application to a 4 years long scolarship ( FRIA, Belgium ). You will participate in a research about multi-actor coordination in the context of crop diversification. This research project is a continuation of the European project DiverIMPACTS ( www.diverimpacts.net ). Key questions are: What are the critical aspects of the alignment and coordination of strategies and processes along the value chains, to facilitate the diversification of cropping systems? For questions regarding the position, contact sytra [at] uclouvain.be
Results found in approaches and methods :
- Economic performance, Levers, Lock-in, …
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Results found in the abstract :
- Sytra has carried out a study identifying key Good Food value chains for the Brussels-Capital Region. Results: Cereals, fruit, vegetables and plant proteins will be the focus of particular activities in strategy the Good Food 2.
Results found in the presentation :
- Good Food 2 ( 2022-2030 ) is the Brussels-Capital Region’s food strategy. The aim of this strategy is to ensure that everyone in Brussels has access to Good Food adapted to their needs, at a fair price for producers. In order to achieve these objectives, the Brussels Region has developed a 5-pronged strategy, taking care in its development and implementation to involve players from the social and health sectors, and has adopted a ‘neighbourhood’ approach to food, as close as possible to its citizens. Axis 2 of the strategy aims to specialize in certain sectors in order to encourage the delivery of quality products from Flanders and Wallonia to the Brussels regions. As part of this, Sytra has carried out a study to identify the Good Food value chains: in other words, the products and their supply chains that will bring about the Good Food change. To achieve this, the study : Analyses other urban and European food strategies and their positioning in certain sectors: the sector approach – the choice of the CBR – is unprecedented. Documents the volumes and consumption habits of the region’s inhabitants Compares these consumption habits with the sustainability issues envisaged by the strategy Presents the sectors chosen on the basis of the results of the study In the end, the ‘Good Food’ sectors in the BCR are: Cereals, fruit, vegetables and plant proteins. The full study is available on this page and on the Good Food portal
Results found in download buttons :
- Download study. …
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Publication of April 15th 2023Research article
Accounting for diversity while assessing sustainability: insights from the Walloon bovine sectors
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Results found in the abstract :
- A scientific paper on the importance of accounting for the diversity of farms when assessing sustainability. We take the opportunity to discuss the dilemmas of sustainability assessments and show that economic and environmental per for mances can go hand in hand. Open-access link below.
Results found in the presentation :
- Livestock production is confronted with significant challenges across all dimensions of sustainability. There is an urgent need to identify sustainable livestock systems that are environmentally friendly, economically viable for farmers, and socially acceptable. To this end, diversity assessments and data-driven indicator-based sustainability assessments can be helpful tools. These two mutually rein for cing approaches each have their own dilemmas and strengths; however, their combination is not straight for ward. In this paper, we propose a method that simultaneously assesses the diversity and sustainability of production systems within one agricultural sector, without compromising either aspect, while overcoming the dilemmas of diversity and sustainability assessments. We test our method on the Walloon dairy and beef sectors ( Belgium ) and base our assessment on data from the European Farm Accountancy Data Network ( FADN ). We apply relevant classification criteria to the sample farms to group them into production systems. The core data was complemented with calculated environmental indicators to per for m a comprehensive sustainability assessment, including structural, socio-economic, and environmental indicators. Our results confirm the importance of complementing sustainability assessments with diversity assessments. Our case study results show that a diversity of livestock systems coexist and that it is possible to overcome trade-offs between economic and environmental per for mances. Extensive grass-based systems present the best combination of economic and environmental results, which highlights the importance of preserving grassland resources at the regional level. The proposed method proves effective to improve the relevance of FADN data and supports the ongoing call to trans for m the FADN into a more comprehensive database that satisfactorily covers all dimensions of sustainability. Download the paper here : https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13593-023-00882-z
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- Research article, …
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Publication of March 11th 2024Report
Alignment and coordination strategies for crop diversification
Results found in the main url :
Results found in the presentation :
- The purpose of this research was to highlight the critical aspects of alignment and coordination of strategies and processes along value chains, related to the diversification of crop systems. The methods for this study included a systematic review of scientific literature on intra-value chains coordination in the context of crop diversification. This review allowed to identify barriers to coordination, and related levers to enhance the alignment and coordination of processes related to crop diversification. Those levers are discussed according to the type of value chains. Secondly, a framework was developed to render systematic and consistent the characterization of crop diversification value chains. This framework is meant to enable a more targeted analysis of case studies and provides a foundation for cross-case comparisons and the identification of broader trends or patterns. By organizing similar value chains into clusters, future projects can effectively target specific dimensions or variables for further study , thereby enhancing the depth and breadth of research in crop diversification contexts. Levers could then be better targeted according to various variables of crop diversification farming systems and value chains.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Analysis of alignment and coordination strategies for crop diversification : Supplementary research following the DiverIMPACTS project. Hind Dib, Clémentine Antier, and Philippe Baret, 2024. Sytra, UCLouvain.
Results found in the publication context :
- The research was rolled out as a complementary study in the continuation the European project DiverIMPACTS.
Results found in download buttons :
- Summary of research. …
Results found in files names :
- https://sytra.be/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/research-summary-analysis-of-alignment-and-coordination-strategies-for-crop-diversification.pdf, . …
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Publication of March 11th 2025Presentation
Presence at the International Conference of researchers and farmers – Via Campesina & ULB
Results found in the abstract :
- Two presentations made : 1 ) A critical review of EU agri-food policy impacts 2 ) Evaluating a framework for measuring agroecology: A case study of public financing for agroecological transition in the Walloon Region
Results found in the presentation :
- 🌿 Sytra at the International Conference of Research ers and Farmers – Via Campesina & ULB 🌿 📢 Last week, the Sytra team participated in the International Conference of Research ers and Farmers – Via Campesina 🔎 We had the opportunity to present our research in two sessions: 📌 A critical review of EU agri-food policy impacts 📌 Evaluating a framework for measuring agroecology: A case study of public financing for agroecological transition in the Walloon Region 💬 The conference fostered rich exchanges with a diverse and engaged panel of research ers , farmers, and policymakers. A strong sense of togetherness emerged, rein for cing the shared commitment to trans for ming the EU agriculture & food system. ✨ Key takeaways: 🔹 Public policies and market regulation sit at the heart of a complex puzzle—navigating the dilemma of addressing urgent concerns while daring for ambition, all within a framework that must remain fair and viable for both farmers and citizens. 🔹 Building alliances and having the boldness to reimagine the future of the CAP are central to achieving a paradigm shift—one that ensures a fairer allocation of subsidies, aligning public support with environmental and social objectives while securing viable futures for farmers. 🔹 In times when scientific evidence faces increasing skepticism, science must remain a key actor, ensuring that agroecological transitions are guided by sound knowledge and contribute to fair and sustainable policies. 🔹Guaranteeing and supporting the production of – and access to sound knowledge, data and references is a responsibility of public bodies, policies and government policies to facilitate the monitoring of the dynamics and transitions that are ( or are not ) taking place in the agricultural and food sectors.
Results found in the publication context :
- “Rethink the regulation of food market for agroecological transition in Europe” International Conference of Researchers and Farmers – Via Campesina Campus of ULB, Brussels, Belgium.
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Results found in the abstract :
- What is the current situation of the livestock sector? To which extent is there a diversity of production systems? What would be the consequences of different scenarios for the development of the sector in terms of production, consumption and environmental impacts?
Results found in the presentation :
- This study aimed to open a public debate on the environmental consequences of current farming practices and food consumption patterns in Belgium, and on existing alternative production systems. The study is based on a prospective approach. It provides a description of the five main livestock systems and characteristics of the livestock sector. Several scenarios for the development of the livestock sector by 2050 are then described and their consequences in terms of environmental impacts are assessed.
Results found in the publication context :
- This study was commissioned by Greenpeace Belgium in 2017 with the aim of opening a public debate on the environmental consequences of current farming practices and food consumption patterns in Belgium, and on existing alternative production systems.
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the full report ( EN ). Download the summary ( EN ). Download the summary ( NL ). Download the presentation ( EN ). …
Results found in files names :
- https://sytra.be/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/UCLouvain_Study_Livestock_Belgium_v191028.pdf, . https://sytra.be/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/UCLouvain_EN_Exec-summary_Livestock_scenarios_191025.pdf, . https://sytra.be/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/UCLouvain_NDLS_Exec-summary_Livestock-scenarios_191029.pdf, . https://sytra.be/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/UCLouvain_Livestock_scenarios_Presentation_190204_VFF.pdf, . …
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Publication of August 12th 2022Research article
Lock-ins to transition pathways anchored in contextualized cooperative dynamics : insights from the historical trajectories of the Walloon dairy cooperatives
Results found in the abstract :
- A historical study on lock-ins to diversification pathways of dairy cooperatives. By considering cooperatives as social-ecological systems, we uncovered contextualized blocking mechanisms against inter-cooperative agreements
Results found in the presentation :
- Drawing on a historical study of the Walloon dairy cooperatives, this paper analyses how complex cooperative dynamics define lock-ins in their trajectories. We consider cooperatives as firms active on markets and as structures of collective action gathering farmers-members around common strategic goals. Williamson’s framework from New Institutional Economics accounts for the embeddedness of firms’ strategies and governance in their wider context of development. Under the influence of this context of development, Ostrom’s IAD ( Institutional Analysis and Development ) and SES ( Social-Ecological Systems ) frameworks, merged in a so-called CIS framework, capture the dynamic interplay between the components of cooperatives. Resorting to a combination between these frameworks, this paper discusses how the interplay between the components of the cooperatives’ social-ecological system unfolded in the trajectories of the Walloon dairy cooperatives over the last sixty years. We uncover a double social dilemma at play. On the part of the farmers, the social dilemma anchors itself in the tension between their short-term interests as milk supplier over those of principal investor. On the part of the cooperatives’ directors, the social dilemma anchors itself in the features of linking and bridging social capital in the region, unfavourable to inter-cooperative dialogue. In the Walloon Region, these social dilemma constituted a structural driver of the competition between dairy cooperatives and the subsequent inability to cooperate and invest towards successful long-term diversification pathways. We discuss how contextual factors, in particular market features, regulatory frameworks, socio-political features, and institutional support to dialogue, may aggravate, or conversely mitigate the effect of these social dilemma on cooperatives’ trajectories. We call for more historically-in for med studies on the impact of context on cooperative dynamics and stress the relevance of contextualized approaches to unlock prospective dynamics of collective agency in transition pathways.
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the full paper. Download the presentation of the paper. …
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Publication of October 22nd 2024Report
Toward a resilient food supply of Brussels Capital region: possible scenarios based on a barriers analysis and an explorative prospective approach
Results found in the abstract :
- Brussels Food 2050 ( BruFo2050 ), is an explorative prospective research project that gathers two teams: Sytra from UCLouvain and Sfere, from KULeuven. This three-years long project aims at diving into the analysis and understanding of the Brussels food supply system.
Results found in the presentation :
- Brussels Food 2050 ( BruFo2050 ), is an explorative prospective research project that gathers two teams with an history of collaboration and complementary experiences: Sytra from UCLouvain and Sfere, from KULeuven. The research is financed by the Prospective Research Call framed by Innoviris. This three-years long project aims at diving into the analysis and understanding of the Brussels food supply system. Based on experience and previous studies led by Sytra and Sfere ( within the Futures4Food project ( Belspo ) or for the Good Food Strategy ) we will be addressing the six following questions: How does the Brussel food supply system operate? How sustainable is the current system? What are the barriers of this situation towards a more sustainable system? What can the future look like by ( not ) acting on these barriers? How to progress toward a resilient food supply system? How to represent the Brussels’ food supply system? The whole work will be done according to two key methodological choices: we will apply and enter in this research by i ) a value-chain approach and with ii ) a representativity lens. This last methodological choice – the representativity aspect ( question six ) – is transversal and will be specifically studied through a thesis work led by the Sfere team. The prospective exercice will be based on a participative barrier analysis and the futures scenario constructed on the evolution or suppression of those barriers. This exercise will then be followed by a resilience assessment in order to progress toward a resilient food supply system by 2050. Few innovative points we are looking for ward to developing and implementing in this research : The value chain approach to discuss Brussels food supply system, The representativity dimension in participative and prospective process, The combination of quantitative and qualitative scenario design, A resilience assessment for the identified scenarios, A science for policy interface that is proposed by Innoviris. The updates to the project and the different deliverables will be published on this website. Research questions
Results found in the publication context :
- The research is financed by the Prospective Research Call framed by Innoviris.
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Publication of January 31st 2020Report
The vegetable sector in the Walloon Region: Current situation and scenarios towards 2050
Results found in the presentation :
- This study focuses on the four main vegetable crops in the Walloon Region: peas, beans, carrots and onions; and takes a look at two sub-sectors: the fresh market and the processing industry. The study also makes a distinction between production in large open fields and on small and medium-sized farms. This study provides an inventory of the Walloon vegetable sector, highlighting the diversity of practices and production methods for the four selected vegetables. Secondly, it presents the comparison of different prospective scenarios for vegetable production. This study was carried out in an iterative and participatory manner. It is based on the literature, the available statistical data, as well as on the knowledge of experts in the sector provided during individual interviews and focus group discussions. A total of seventeen experts were consulted as part of the study .
Results found in the publication context :
- This research was funded by the Walloon Minister of the Environment.
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the summary ( FR ). Download the full report ( FR ). …
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Results found in the abstract :
- This study highlights that it is possible to combine environmental and economic performance in bovine ( dairy and suckler ) production systems in Wallonia ( Southern Belgium ).
Results found in the presentation :
- This study aims to analyse the environmental and economic performance of different bovine production systems in Wallonia. More specifically, the study relies on the analysis of farm accountancy data to meet two main objectives : To highlight the diversity of practices by identifying typologies of dairy and suckler production systems specific to Wallonia. To compare these production systems from the point of view of their structural characteristics and their environmental and economic performance . The results show that ( 1 ) it is possible to combine environmental and economic performance s : systems with the best environmental results present economic results which are as satisfactory as the others; and ( 2 ) similar income levels can hide different economic models. The attached documents ( in French ) present the results in more detail.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Riera A., Antier C. & Baret P. 2020. Analyse des performances environnementales et économiques de différents systèmes de production bovins en Région wallonne. Sytra - UCLouvain.
Results found in the publication context :
- This study was commissioned by WWF-Belgium with the objective of identifying agricultural systems that protect the environment while guaranteeing a decent income for farmers. https://wwf.be/fr/un-double-enjeu-de-lagriculture/
Results found in approaches and methods :
- Economic performance, Environmental footprint, …
Results found in files names :
- https://sytra.be/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/uclouvain_wwf_results_200930.pdf, . https://sytra.be/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/ucl-analyse-performancesenvecon-resume.pdf, . https://sytra.be/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/sytra_wwf_presentation_05_octobre.pdf, . …
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Publication of November 16th 2012Research article
Sustainability indicators for livestock farming. A review
Results found in the presentation :
- Intensive livestock farming has raised issues about environmental impacts and food security during the past 20 years. As a consequence, there is a strong social demand for sustainable livestock systems. Sustainable livestock systems should indeed be environmentally friendly, economically viable for farmers, and socially acceptable, notably for animal welfare. For that goal, many sustainability indicators and methods have been developed at the farm level. The main challenge is using a transparent selection process to avoid assessment subjectivity. Here, we review typologies of sustainability indicators. We set guidelines for selecting indicators in a data-driven context, by reviewing selection criteria and discussing methodological issues. A case study is presented. The selected set of indicators mainly includes ( 1 ) environmental indicators focusing on farmer practices; ( 2 ) quantitative economic indicators; and ( 3 ) quantitative social indicators with a low degree of aggregation. The selection of indicators should consider ( 1 ) contextualization to determine purpose, scales, and stakeholders involved in the assessment; ( 2 ) the comparison of indicators based on various criteria, mainly data availability; and ( 3 ) the selection of a minimal, consistent, and sufficient set of indicators. Finally, we discuss the following issues: topics for which no indicators are measurable from available data should explicitly be mentioned in the results. A combination of means-based indicators could be used to assess a theme, but redundancy must be avoided. The unit used to express indicators influences the results and has there for e to be taken into account during interpretation. To compare farms from indicators, the influence of the structure on indicator values has to be carefully studied.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Lebacq, T., Baret, P.V. & Stilmant, D. Sustainability indicators for livestock farming. A review. Agron. Sustain. Dev. 33, 311–327 ( 2013 ). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13593-012-0121-x
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the scientific paper. …
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Event of October 18th 2024Conference
The Protein Transition: Rethinking our diets for a sustainable future
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Results found in the abstract :
- Students4food Inspirational Talks: a World Food Forum Event in Ghent
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- The FAO Liaison Office in Brussels, Ghent University, and the World Food For um are excited to present Students4Food: a unique opportunity for students ( MSc and PhD level ) from various Belgian Universities to present their most innovative ideas, research and insights on how we can ensure and contribute to the theme of “Good food for all, for today and tomorrow.” The event, which will be open to the public, is part of the 2024 World Food For um , a global youth-led initiative that aims to mobilize young people to trans for m agrifood systems sustainably. Join the Students4Food talks and be inspired by the next generation of innovators who are shaping the future of food! Date: 18 October 2024 Time: 15:00 – 17:00 CEST Location: Foyer Agora, Campus Coupure Building E, Coupure links 653, 9000 Ghent This is an in-person event. Attendance is by registration only. Register here: https://www.fao.org/brussels/events/events-detail/students4food-inspirational-talks–a-world-food- for um -event-in-ghent/en
Results found in download buttons :
- Download presentation. …
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Results found in the main url :
Results found in the abstract :
- Hosted by Pesticide Action Network Europe, Friends of the Earth Europe, The European Network of Scientists for Social and Environmental Responsibility and Agroecology Europe
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- Pesticide Action Network Europe, Friends of the Earth Europe, The European Network of Scientists for Social and Environmental Responsibility and Agroecology Europe would like to invite you to the hybrid event “Farming without harming: Feeding policy action for resilient systems”. The aim of the event is to gather policymakers, scientists, farmers, and civil society to highlight the potential of agroecological systems and integrated pest management to decrease pesticide dependency and transition towards more resilient food systems. Long-term sustainable farming systems depend on natural pest control, pollinators, and living soils. Farmers across Europe show that enhancing crop rotation and strip cropping, soil health, ecological infrastructure, and biodiversity lower pesticide dependency, enhance water infiltration, decrease drought stress and erosion, while securing good and stable yields. Pesticide use poses an urgent and far-reaching problem: the harm to human health and ecosystems is high, leading to extensive societal costs. The reduction of pesticides is a cornerstone of the European Green Deal and Farm to For k strategy, and a demand of two European Citizens’ initiatives. Reducing pesticide use should be a top priority for the incoming European Commission, Parliament, and Presidency handed over from Belgium to Hungary. This event will focus on Integrated Pest Management and agroecological practices as the cornerstone of resilient farming systems and decreased pesticide dependency. Programme: 2:00 – 2:05 Introduction 2:05 – 2:15 Opening Statement, Jens Boyen, Representative of the Belgian Presidency 2:15 – 2:30 Presentation, András Székács, The European Network of Scientists for Social and Environmental Responsibility ( ENSSER ) 2:30 – 3:10 Panel Caroline Amrom ( Sytra, UCL ) – Funding for agroecology in Wallonia Lili Balogh ( Agroecology Europe and Hungarian Agroecology Network ) Fanny Boeraeve, Wallonian Ministry for Environment 3:10 – 3:30 Break 3:30 – 4:20: Panel Nicolas Munier-Jolain, ( IPM ), Reducing pesticide dependency: Inspiration from the field Raffael Buonatesta ( IBMA Belgium/Fytofend ) Belgian farmer TBC, Belgian advisor IPM/Agroecology TBC 4:20 – 4:30: Statement, Géza Gábriel, Head of Unit, Ministry of Agriculture, Hungary 4.30 – 4.35 Closing statement 4:35 – 5:00 Free discussion and refreshments Registration
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Publication of July 8th 2021Research article
Transitions in agriculture: organic, agroecological and conventional farming
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- The contribution of the multi-level perspective ( MLP ) to study transition dynamics is widely recognized. MLP involves examining interactions between three socio-technical levels: niche, regime and landscape. However, empirical analysis of niche-regime interactions when applying this framework to agricultural transitions to sustainability remains challenging. The diversity of historical farming systems within a region can make niches and regimes highly heterogeneous. In addition, agricultural transitions to sustainability may be driven as much by technological changes as by institutional features, including normative rules and cultural cognitive rules that are less adequately addressed by MLP. To tackle these two challenges, the authors combined the MLP with two additional frameworks to describe transition processes: the comparative agriculture framework, drawn from agro-economic, geographic and historical analyses of agricultural crises, and the justification of practices framework, drawn from pragmatic sociology. In this paper, the authors apply these three frameworks to the fresh vegetable production sector in Wallonia ( Belgium ) and discuss visions of transition through the lens of the agroecological paradigm. This leads them to predict a situation of coexistence between two socio-technical configurations of Transition frameworks production: an old, organic and conventional configuration reoriented toward more commercial autonomy for the producers, and a new configuration oriented toward agroecology. The study contributes to a major debate discussing the extent to which the agroecological paradigm is being co-opted by the regime or remains faithful toits original principles and opens up perspectives for public policy development in the context of increasing governmental attention to the agroecological paradigm.
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- Research article, …
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Event of October 15th 2024Conference
How to effectively engage actors in transitions for sustainable impact?
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- We are pleased to invite you to our Symposium on Action Research in Food Systems Within the framework of the Futures4Food ( F4F ) program—a transdisciplinary and interdisciplinary research project financed by BELSPO; Flanders Business School, KU Leuven ( Sfere ) and Université catholique de Louvain ( Sytra ) are pleased to invite you to a symposium on research in the field of food systems transitions. Sustainability transitions present themselves as complex problems involving multiple stakeholders. Trans for mative system change is by its very nature collaborative. It involves actors across the whole value chain—from primary production to distribution—as well as consumers, regulators, financial institutions, research ers and many more. It is a process in which actors and institutions within ( and across ) systems can learn through a dynamic change process by collectively experimenting with technical and social innovations. Through this process of learning-by-doing, new pathways for change can be articulated, resulting in new business models, social innovations or institutional configurations that can unlock changes in the system. The F4F project initiated, developed, supported and analyzes two participative trajectories with a specific emphasis on building collectively system knowledge as well as target and trans for mation knowledge. Those two processes were led within the agro-food value chain: the shift in consumption from animal to plant-based proteins and the shift in production of cereals from feed to food purposes. The Futures4Food team wants to convene practitioners and scientists alike to exchange on lessons learned, best practices and analytical frameworks of transition-related multi-stakeholders processes. More specifically, we aim to address the following questions: What are your best practices in system, target and trans for mation knowledge use and production? What are the necessary conditions to progress, in a participative way, on those different knowledges? Which actors should be involved in such processes in terms of representation, personality, differences in worldviews, level of responsibility, etc.? Should only for erunners be involved or a larger set of stakeholders? What ambitions can be set and what processes can be used with groups of heterogenous composition? How can decisions be made? How to make sure that all voices are heard, also of those not present? What roles can/should the research ers play in these processes in terms of convening and facilitation? How to build trust and a sense of community? How to make sure that the community continues after the end of the project? The symposium is set up as a combination of keynotes, short presentations and plenary discussions. As such, we invite contributions documenting similar or related change trajectories especially within food systems to create a learning community of scholars and practitioners. Set in the heart of Antwerp at the campus of Flanders Business School, this physical event promises an enriching experience for both junior and senior research ers and practitioners. Register here !
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Publication of June 24th 2024Policy brief
How to design “intercrops friendly” policies? Lessons from the analysis of the barriers to intercropping in Europe
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- Despite its potential to increase the sustainability of our agricultural system, intercropping has virtually disappeared from the agricultural landscapes of European member states. Its spread is hindered by barriers of different types ( e.g., cultural, financial, organisational, technical ) affecting all levels of the food value chain, which emerge from a complex web of interactions and may rein for ce one another. When it comes to identifying solutions, the whole causal chains linking barriers together should be considered. Intercropping won’t develop without a coordinated commitment from all stakeholders of the food value chain, including policy makers. This policy brief presents a serie of five recommendations policymakers should implement to foster the use of intercropping: Promote the development of coordinated value chains adapted to intercropping, Enhance the involvement of stakeholders in policy making, Ensure coherency between policy objectives and instruments, Increase and facilitate the access to financial support for all actors involved in intercropping value chains, Foster advisor training and knowledge transfer. These actions should be implemented altogether to address the systemic aspect of the intercropping lock-ins.
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- Research undertaken in the context of IntercropVALUES – Developing Intercropping for agrifood Value chains and Ecosystem Services delivery in Europe and Southern countries
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Publication of September 9th 2023Research article
Assessing crop sequence diversity and agronomic quality in grassland regions
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- This study aims to provide an assessment of the diversity and agronomic quality of crop rotation/sequence, generalised grassland regions and regions with a high rate of organic farming. The assessment methods are applied to Famenne, Ardenne and the Jurassic region of Wallonia.
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- Industrial inputs have replaced crop rotations for fertility and pest management in input-intensive agriculture, resulting in a high number of crop sequence permutations and negative impacts on ecosystems and human health. Strengthening diversified and agronomically optimised crop sequences is critical to promoting sustainable practices. Comprehensive crop sequence diagnosis methods play an important role in evaluating and improving current crop sequence practices. However, recent literature has focused on annual crops, leading to biased results in crop sequence analysis for organic farming and livestock regions, where multiannual temporary fodder crops are a key aspect of crop sequences. This paper extends two methods of crop sequence analysis by including multiannual temporary fodder crops. By applying these generalised methods to a case study in the beef grassland regions of Belgium, using IACS crop data from 2015 to 2020, we reveal significant differences in the agronomic quality of the crop sequences across the territory and between organic and non-organic fields. In contrast to the existing literature, the inclusion of multiannual temporary fodder crops highlights the prevalence of high diversity and high agronomic quality sequences in livestock farming regions. Maize monoculture ( of low agronomic quality ), temporary grasslands ( associated with high quality crop sequences ) and organic certification are the main drivers of crop sequence quality in the regions studied. The paper is available in Open Access ( see section About this publication ).
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- Research article, …
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Publication of December 18th 2020Research article
How and to what extent are Flemish farmers pursuing the principles of agroecology ?
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- Agroecology is increasingly recognized as a valuable perspective to face the sustainability challenges of contemporary foods systems. Yet case-comparisons based on a holistic assessment of actual farmer practices have been lacking. In this paper, the authors seek to identify the different farming models underlying the sets of practices of Flemish beef farmers ( Belgium ). For this, they rely on 37 accounts of a diverse group of Flemish beef farmers. Farmers’ practices were gathered through semi-structured interviews. These practices were categorized along 36 Pathways of Action to pursue 13 agroecological principles, identified in research published earlier. To compare how and to what extent each farmer is pursuing these principles, the authors turned this qualitative in for mation into sets of indicator scores. With Archetypal Analysis, they identified three farming models underlying their diverse pursuits of agroecological principles: one farming model represents seven conventional farmers who name a bare minimum of practices contributing to agroecology, and two models representing farmers that do integrate elements of agroecology. Conceptually, the second farming model, which represents nine direct selling farmers, eight of them organic, corresponds with a low-input, low-capital, but knowledge intensive model, embedded within alternative commercial and social networks, which actively seeks to become independent from regime institutions. The third farming model represents five mostly whole-selling conventional beef farmers that find advantages within the mainstream market environment. It overlaps with a number of practices related to the techno-productive dimension of agroecology with the second model, as far as these maintain or increase productivity, and are compatible with the expectations of value-chain actors. These results provide an empirical basis for concepts such as “peasant farming” and “sustainable intensification” to understand the diverging translation of agroecological principles into practice. However, the remaining half of the farmers is found in the continuum between these models, indicating that these models are combinable in practice to some extent, and that not all farmers go as far as the most emblematic instances of these models. While a more systematic assessment of the presence of means of agroecology at each studied case is still lacking, this study may well have laid the foundation for such an assessment tool. Moreover, this study already demonstrates that such assessments have the potential to empirically ground theorizations of different farming models and connect them with existing farmers’ sets of practices. This paper is available the scientific journal Agricultural Systems.
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- Research article, …
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Publication of November 1st 2017Research article
Working conditions in agroecological, organic and conventional market gardening
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- This study investigates whether ‘green jobs’ in agriculture could contribute to better working conditions. We examine a sample of 41 conventional, organic and agroecological vegetable producers who provide fresh produce for markets exploring their working conditions and the employment conditions of their workers, in Wallonia ( Belgium ). Drawing on the sociological, economic and agricultural literature, we identify nine dimensions that determine working conditions: leeway and control level; income and social benefits; work ( in )security; political experience at work; time at work; intrinsic benefits of work; work-related discom for t; occupational health; and competence. We also assess the employment contracts of workers and the way producers manage their workers. Overall we identify four key issues. First, working conditions were not necessarily better for producers in systems that put more emphasis on ecological values. The socio-economic viability of three production systems, including agroecological market gardening on small areas of land, is insufficient. Second, workers in all systems, except in one agroecological system, experience poor employment conditions. Third, each group of producers has to make trade-offs between the ecological, societal and economic dimensions of their business. Finally, we note that socio-economic and political context, history, work orientation and socio-cultural heritage have more influence on producers’ working conditions than their degree of mechanization.
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- Economic performance, Participatory approach, …
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- Research article, …
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- Download the scientific paper. …
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- Dear colleagues, You are warmly welcome to attend a seminar I will be giving on June 5th from 12 to 13 p.m. ( Belgian time zone ). The seminar will tackle the paradoxes of the protein transition, defined as the dietary shift from animal to alternative protein sources encompassing, for example, insects or plant-based options. You can either join physically ( in Louvain-la-Neuve ) or remotely. To best organise this seminar, please fill in the Google For m ( 2 minutes to complete ): Link to the For m Please feel free to share this invitation with people who might be interested in the topic.
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Results found in the abstract :
- Despite several decades of research, relationships leading to competition or facilitation between associated crops remain unclear. This poster presents an attempt to compile available knowledge on intercropping in order to improve its understanding.
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- Intercropping ( IC ) consists in growing various crops on one single plot at the same time. Despite the wide range of advantages, it is associated to, its adoption in Belgium remains low. In fact, many interactions can take place between two associated crops, which lead either to facilitation or competition. After several decades of research , the exact relationships leading to facilitation or competition and the conditions in which they occur are still unclear. Consequently, it is hard to predict the outcome of a given IC design in a given environment and to advise farmers. In order to ( i ) better understand the mechanisms at work in intercropping and to ( ii ) identify the gaps in current knowledge, we did an extensive literature review and compiled the in for m ation in for m of networks of interaction. The first step was to create the rough network. To do so, we read 142 papers from major scientific journals operating in various fields, from plant physiology to soil biology and ecology. From these papers, we identify the interactions that can take place between two associated crops. In order to be as exhaustive as possible, we have taken into account both proven and assumed interactions. We then classified the gathered in for m ation into nodes, – which represent elements, e.g. “Leaf of plant A”, or processes, e.g. “Photosynthesis” -, and links, – which represent relationships between nodes, e.g. “Increases” -, and we created a global network. In order to give some consistency to this network derived from sound scientific literature, we added some links, based on implicit knowledge ( e.g. Light -> Photosynthesis ) and common sense ( e.g. Crops 1 -> Height of crop 1 ). The second step, still in progress, is the simplification of the network. As such, the global network is not usable. We are there for e currently trying to simplify it in three ways: By splitting the global network in smaller networks, each focusing on a particular subject ( e.g. “Pests and diseases in intercropping” ); By identifying the ten most used words in the global network and create an individual network for each word, in order to identify the relationships of main importance; By creating an ontology that should allow us to clarify the nature of the nodes and of the links between nodes and to assign to each node a certain level of accuracy, thus simplifying the global network by using only part of the accuracy levels. The objective of the simplification is to get network( s ) that could be used, among others, to: Identify the gaps in current knowledge about intercropping; Advise research ers and research funds on what to study in intercropping; Serve as a base of discussion with farmers. The final version of the network( s ) will be made available online via a RShiny application.
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Publication of January 3rd 2024Research article
A systematic review of the definitions, narratives and paths forwards for a protein transition in high-income countries
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- The protein transition, aiming to rebalance protein intake between animal and alternative proteins, is gaining momentum in scientific and policy discussions on food system trans for mation. Here, using a systematic review approach, we identified 33 articles that address challenges in reducing the environmental impacts of protein production and consumption, providing healthy diets for a growing population and preventing adverse effects of industrial livestock production systems. We found unclear definitions of the protein transition, conflicting views on reduction or replacement of dietary protein and a lack of attention to systemic change by reducing protein to its macronutrient function. Three narratives were identified, namely, the consumer narrative focusing on consumption-based solutions targeting dietary changes; the techno-centred narrative developing new, more resource-efficient protein production systems; and the socio-technological narrative that intends to transition the agri-food system from an animal-dominated regime to an alternative protein regime. We conclude that solutions should consider factors such as scale, initiating actors and expected impact to support complementary protein transition approaches.
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- Research article, …
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Event of October 9th 2024Conference
From Policies to Practices: An Agroecological Approach to Transition
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- In his KOSMOS lecture “From Policies to Practices: An Agroecological Approach to Transition“, Prof. Philippe Baret will talk about the future of food systems from the perspective of agroecology. From Policies to Practices: An Agroecological Approach to Transition 09.10.2024, 18.00-19.30 HU Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, Senatssaal Agroecology offers a framework to rethink agriculture within the broader context of food systems and proposes a pathway to reconcile agricultural practices with environmental dimensions. This KOSMOS lecture argues that reconfiguring agricultural practices requires a trans for mation of dietary patterns and the evolution of environmental policies. Elements of intermediation between policy and practice, such as agricultural advisory services, value chains, and territorial policies, are essential to develop multi-level governance dynamics towards a sustainability transition. Moderation: Peter H. Feindt, Professor of Agricultural and Food Policy at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin About the lecture series The KOSMOS Lecture Series is a joint initiative of Open Humboldt – the “contact zone” at HU Berlin for more exchange between science and society – and IRI THESys. On two evenings per semester, researchers from a wide range of disciplines talk about anthropogenic environmental and climate change in an understandable way and invite the broad public for discussion. Entrance is free of charge. More in for mation: https://www.iri-thesys.org/news/public-event-kosmos-lesung-by-prof-philippe-baret/
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- Download presentation. …
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Publication of January 1st 2021Communication
The sugarbeet sector in the Walloon Region: Current situation and scenarios for 2050
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- What are the main production models for sugar beet in Wallonia today? How is the sector organised? What developments can be envisaged, and with what consequences in terms of production and pesticide use?
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- The sugar beet sector is facing major challenges that undermine the economic stability of its players, there for e impacting the sustainability of the sector. In a post-quota context already fragilized by the decline of sugar prices on a highly fluctuating global market, the current debates surrounding the authorisation of neonicotinoids bring additionnal pressure on sugar beet producers. Faced with this situation, it seems relevant to objectify the benefits, costs and risks associated with the use of these substances, as well as to identify the potential for the development of alternatives viable for all stakeholders. Carried out at the request of the Walloon Region, the present project concerns the elaboration of an inventory of production methods in the sugar beet sector in the Walloon Region and the elaboration of future scenarios based on the current situation. In particular, the study proposes to evaluate the relevance and feasibility of developing a sugar beet sector based on more sustainable systems, and to identify the levers that favour the development of such agricultural production methods. The study , which will be carried out in 2021-2022, has 4 objectives Map the production methods and characterise the sugar beet sector in Wallonia; Develop scenarios about the trend orientation, as well as the transition trajectories taken by the sector and the consequences in 2050; Evaluate the current levels of neonicotinoid use, and objectify the benefits, costs and risks associated with their use; Identify the barriers, obstacles and levers to the development of a less input-intensive sector, particularly in the face of the end of neonicotinoid use. This study will be conducted in an iterative and participatory manner. It will be based on the literature, available statistical data, and the knowledge of experts in the sector provided during individual interviews and focus group discussions.
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Publication of December 4th 2020Research article
Coexistence of Cooperative models as Structural answer to Lock-Ins in Diversification Pathways : The Case of the Walloon Dairy Sector
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- Drawing on an analysis of the Walloon dairy sector, this paper aims at bringing novel insights on the coexistence issue in agrifood transition studies. Whereas most studies explore the coexistence of farm models, our study focuses on value chains, in particular on cooperatives. In the Walloon Region, new dairy cooperatives emerged, as substitute or as complement to the incumbent vertically integrated dairy cooperatives. This paper focuses on the coexistence of dairy cooperative models as enabler of transition toward product diversification. Dairy cooperatives are hybrid actors: economic agents on the market on the one hand, structure of collective agency on the other hand. Williamson’s framework of New Institutional Economics acknowledges that the allocation of resources by cooperatives depends on governance processes and on the wider institutional context in which the cooperatives evolve. Within the broader frame of the Multi- Level Perspective, this approach allows to consider the socio-technical coherence in which the cooperatives evolve, the effects of this coherence on their pathways of development, and the complementarity of the cooperative models. This qualitative analysis builds on semi-directed interviews with actors of the Walloon dairy sector. The results outline distinctions between the new cooperative models and mainstream dairy cooperatives in market approach, definition of milk quality, distribution of added value, governance, and interactions with partners. Both models evolve within a distinct socio-technical coherence, holding, in the case of the mainstream dairy cooperatives, lock-ins to diversification related to the relationship with the farmer-members and the milk they produce in the industrial vertically integrated model. The new cooperative models circumvent these lock-ins through de-integration and externalization of initiatives, remuneration, and risk. They allow specific groups of actors—still related or unrelated to the mainstream dairy cooperative—to explore new market pathways in accordance with their potential, and to mutually agree on criteria qualifying milk. This research draws the picture of a possible reconfiguration of the dairy landscape toward a more diversified ecosystem of actors and invites to consider structures of governance in collective action as a cornerstone issue, because of their significant role in terms of enablement, coexistence, and complementarity throughout the transition process.
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- Paper written in the frame of a PhD project, with the financial support of the Fonds de la Recherche Scientifique—FNRS—Fonds pour la For mation à la Recherche dans l’Industrie et dans l’Agriculture FRIA. The authors heartily thank all interviewees for giving their time and energy to share their insights on their situation in the sector.
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- Research article, …
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- Download the paper in PDF version. …
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Publication of May 4th 2021Presentation
Survey on seed choices in the organic vegetable sector in the Walloon Region
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- A survey to identify the main varieties used for vegetable production in the Walloon Region and to highlight the needs in terms of varietal selection and supply of plants and seeds.
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- This survey was addressed to Walloon organic vegetable producers ( whether they grow on small, medium or large surfaces; for the fresh or processing sectors ). The survey was open from the beginning of January to the end of February. You can view the main results below. – What degree of cultivated biodiversity in vegetable production? A poorly investigated question. Organic vegetable production covers 1,800 ha [1] and involves more than 200 producers [2]. It is composed of 95% open field crops [2]. Within open field vegetable production, a small number of vegetables are in the majority ( carrots, green beans, leeks ) [3], rrevealing a very high degree of homogeneity in terms of species grown. The remaining 5% of the vegetable area corresponds to greenhouse production and market gardening on small and medium-sized areas [2]. Within small and medium-sized vegetable production, the degree of diversity in terms of species and varieties, while certainly higher than in open field crops, is not yet recorded. What roles do varietal and seed issues play in the resilience of organic production? The FAO states that seeds are a “keystone of agroecological systems” [4]. Recent research conducted by our team shows that varietal and seed choices are directly related to the sustainability of production methods ( disease resistance without the use of ( bio )pesticides, lower demand for fertilisers, etc. ), their productivity ( yield, resilience to hazards ) and their sovereignty ( depending on the modalities of access to seeds and there for e the degree of seed autonomy ) [5]. Although this topic rarely seems to be discussed in policies for moving towards a more sustainable agriculture, seed choices and dynamic management of cultivated biodiversity are central to the per for mance and resilience of vegetable production. Survey of vegetable growers – Winter 2020/2021 This survey was aimed at Walloon market gardeners in organic farming ( whether they grow on small, medium or large surfaces; for the fresh or processing sectors ). The objectives of the survey were to list the varieties used for vegetable production in the Walloon Region and to evaluate their per for mance ( from the point of view of the market gardeners ); to map the production and supply methods for seeds or plants of these varieties; to highlight the factors that govern the current seed choices and the future needs of market gardeners; and to identify development opportunities ( participatory selection process, co-development, etc. ). References : [1] Statbel ; [2] Biowallonie ; [3] Riera A. et al, 2020 ; [4] FAO, 2016 ; [5] Antier C., 2020.
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Publication of May 2nd 2024PhD thesis
The Diversity of Practices in Conservation Agriculture: Categorization and Impact Assessment in the Walloon Region, Belgium
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- This thesis proposes a multi-scale, interdisciplinary, participatory methodology to identify and assess this diversity. In Wallonia, five CA-types have been identified and differentiated by organic certification, the presence of temporary grassland, and the proportion of industrial crops in the rotation. Analysis shows significant differences in soil structural stability and carbon content: CA-types that include temporary grassland in their rotation, even if they occasionally plow, have higher stability and carbon content than those that have abandoned the plow altogether and grow industrial crops in their rotation. Farmers’ incentives to adopt these practices vary within the same CA-type, as do their prospects for changing CA practices. This study highlights the diversity of CA practices at the regional level, the diversity of impacts, and the diversity of incentives and prospects for change within CA-types, with implications for other areas and farming systems. More generally, it questions the boundaries of farming systems and the policy choices associated with them.
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Publication of April 19th 2025Research article
A governance perspective on agri-environmental schemes: Actors, roles, and barriers
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- This study aims to provide a complementary governance perspective on Agri-environmental schemes ( AES ).
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- Agri-environmental schemes ( AES ) carry significant environmental expectations. However, their environmental performance has often been questioned. Existing research has tackled the issue from ecological and economic perspectives. This study aims to provide a complementary governance perspective. It first develops a theoretical framework to analyze AES governance through a multilevel lens, identifying three distinct levels based on different actors’ roles: macro ( setting policy boundaries ), meso ( implementation of the policy framework ), and micro ( farmer actions ). Second, this study develops an analytical framework to investigate barriers hindering AES environmental performance and their linkage to AES governance. The combined frameworks have been tested in a regional case study in the Hauts-de-France region. A list of 40 barriers is identified, spanning organizational, power dynamics, and financial issues. Barriers are not confined to farm or policy scale, distributing unevenly across governance levels, with different agencies across roles and actors in unlocking the AES performance . The paper can be accessed on the website of Ambio journal.
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- Research article, …
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Publication of January 31st 2019Report
The cereal sector in Wallonia: Current situation and scenarios towards 2050
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- What are the main production systems for cereals in Wallonia today? How is the sector organised? What developments can be envisaged, and with what consequences in terms of production and pesticide use?
Results found in the presentation :
- This study provides an overview of the Walloon cereal sector, highlighting the diversity of production systems and the components of downstream flows. In a second step, it presents a comparison of different prospective scenarios. This study was carried out in an iterative and participatory manner. It is based on the literature, available statistical data, and the knowledge of experts in the sector provided during individual interviews and collective focus group discussions. The results of the study are presented in more detail in the attached documents ( in French ).
Results found in the publication context :
- This study was carried out within the framework of the agreement “Étude relative à la mise en œuvre d’un passage du modèle agricole actuel à un modèle sans produits phytopharmaceutiques et à usage limité d’engrais chimiques” ( “ Study on the implementation of a transition from the current agricultural model to a model without plant protection products and with limited use of chemical fertilisers” ) established with the UCLouvain by the Walloon Minister of the Environment, Ecological Transition, Spatial Planning, Mobility and Transport and Animal Welfare.
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Publication of January 31st 2019Report
The potato sector in Wallonia: Current situation and scenarios towards 2050
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- What are the main production systems for potatoes in Wallonia today? How is the sector organised? What developments can be envisaged, and with what consequences in terms of production and pesticide use?
Results found in the presentation :
- his study provides an overview of the Walloon potato sector, highlighting the diversity of production systems and the components of downstream flows. In a second step, it presents a comparison of different prospective scenarios. This study was carried out in an iterative and participatory manner. It is based on the literature, available statistical data, and the knowledge of experts in the sector provided during individual interviews and collective focus group discussions. The results of the study are presented in more detail in the attached documents ( in French ).
Results found in the publication context :
- This study was carried out within the framework of the agreement “Étude relative à la mise en œuvre d’un passage du modèle agricole actuel à un modèle sans produits phytopharmaceutiques et à usage limité d’engrais chimiques” ( “ Study on the implementation of a transition from the current agricultural model to a model without plant protection products and with limited use of chemical fertilisers” ) established with the UCLouvain by the Walloon Minister of the Environment, Ecological Transition, Spatial Planning, Mobility and Transport and Animal Welfare.
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Publication of January 31st 2019Report
The bovine meat sector in Wallonia : Current situation and scenarios towards 2050
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- What are the main production systems for bovine meat in Wallonia today? How is the sector organised? What developments can be envisaged, and with what consequences in terms of production and inputs use?
Results found in the presentation :
- This study provides an overview of the Walloon bovine meat sector, highlighting the diversity of production systems and the components of downstream flows. In a second step, it presents a comparison of different prospective scenarios. This study was carried out in an iterative and participatory manner. It is based on the literature, available statistical data, and the knowledge of experts in the sector provided during individual interviews and collective focus group discussions. The results of the study are presented in more detail in the attached documents ( in French ).
Results found in the publication context :
- This study was carried out within the framework of the agreement “Étude relative à la mise en œuvre d’un passage du modèle agricole actuel à un modèle sans produits phytopharmaceutiques et à usage limité d’engrais chimiques” ( “ Study on the implementation of a transition from the current agricultural model to a model without plant protection products and with limited use of chemical fertilisers” ) established with the UCLouvain by the Walloon Minister of the Environment, Ecological Transition, Spatial Planning, Mobility and Transport and Animal Welfare.
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Publication of July 31st 2009Research article
How agricultural research shapes a technological regime that develops genetic engineering but locks out agroecological innovations
Results found in the presentation :
- Agricultural science and technology ( S&T ) is under great scrutiny. Reorientation towards more holistic approaches, including agroecology, has been backed by a global international assessment of agriculture S&T for development ( IAASTD ). Understanding the past and current trends of agricultural S&T is crucial if such recommendations are to be implemented. This paper shows how the concepts of technological paradigms and trajectories can help analyse the agricultural S&T landscape and dynamics. Genetic engineering and agroecology can be usefully analysed as two different technological paradigms, even though they have not been equally successful in influencing agricultural research . We used a Systems of Innovation ( SI ) approach to identify the determinants of innovation ( the factors that influence research choices ) within agricultural research systems. The influence of each determinant is systematically described ( e.g. funding priorities, scientists’ cognitive and cultural routines etc. ). As a result of their interactions, these determinants construct a technological regime and a lock-in situation that hinders the development of agroecological engineering.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Vanloqueren G., Baret P. V. How agricultural research systems shape a technological regime that develops genetic engineering but locks out agroecological innovations. Research Policy, Volume 38, Issue 6, 2009, Pages 971-983. ISSN 0048-7333, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.respol.2009.02.008.
Results found in the publication context :
- This article was published by Gaëtan Vanloqueren in the context of his PhD researchs.
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the article. …
Results found in files names :
- https://sytra.be/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/2009-Vanloqueren-Baret-How-Agricultural-Research.pdf, . …
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Publication of August 14th 2019Research article
Lock-Ins and Agency: Towards an Embedded Approach of Individual Pathways in the Walloon Dairy Sector
Results found in the abstract :
- A qualitative study on how the agency articulates with structural dynamics in the individual trajectories of dairy farmers. A model of interconnected and embedded lock-ins, from the organizational frame of the regime to the individual frame.
Results found in the presentation :
- As the 2009 dairy crisis drew attention to the situation of dairy farmers in Europe, the extent of strategical power left to farmers in dairy cooperatives of increasing size is a frequently raised issue. Four dairy cooperatives collect 97% of the milk in the Walloon Region ( in the southern part of Belgium ). Two of them integrated agro-food multinationals. We decided to analyze the trajectories of Walloon dairy farmers exploring alternatives to the delivery of milk to these mainstream dairy cooperatives. We focused on the territories situated to the east of the Walloon Region, where dairy farming represents 75% of farming revenues. Alternatives consist either of processing milk on farm or in concluding a contract with a cheese processor collecting milk directly from farmers. Our objective was to understand the issues faced in these alternative trajectories and the reason why these alternatives remained marginal. We designed a qualitative case study based on interviews with farmers and local cheese processors. We mobilized evolutionary approaches on the stability and transitions of systems and approaches of change at the farmer level. It appears that the alternative trajectories remain embedded in a broader dairy context. The lock-ins emerging from this context determine the evolution of the farming model towards intensification and the individual identity and capabilities of farmers. We present a model of interconnected and embedded lock-ins, from the organizational frame of the regime to the individual frame. This model illustrates how the agency articulates with structural dynamics. We propose structural measures in the organization of agricultural education and in terms of support to alternative supply chains that will enhance agency in favor of a change.
Results found in the publication context :
- This research was conducted with the financial support of the Université catholique de Louvain and of the Fonds de la Recherche Scientifique—FNRS—Fonds pour la For mation à la Recherche dans l’Industrie et dans l’Agriculture-FRIA. The authors are grateful to Thérésa Lebacq ( Université Libre de Bruxelles ) for co-supervising the project design and Kevin Morel ( Earth and Life Institute—Agronomy, Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium ) for helpful comments on earlier versions of this paper.
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the scientific paper. …
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Publication of June 3rd 2020Communication
Feed our farmers or our population? Looking beyond the unsovable dilemma
Results found in the abstract :
- An opinion piece on the means to go beyond the link between cheap food and right to food. A reflection on how feeding our population can go hand in hand with paying the farmers the price for a sustainable food production.
Results found in "About this article" :
- Opinion piece originally published as blogpost on Medium Credits for photography : photo by Rafal Swidzinski from FreeImages
Results found in download buttons :
- download the opinion piece. …
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Publication of January 1st 2008Research article
Why are ecological wheat cultivars slow to develop? A ‘lock-in’ case study
Results found in the presentation :
- The use of multi-resistant cultivars allows a significant reduction in fungicide use in low-input cropping systems. However, many major wheat cultivars used in Europe remain sensitive to frequent diseases and require fungicide protection. This paper aims at understanding the factors explaining the low level of adoption of multi-resistant wheat cultivars in Wallonia ( Belgium ). Cultivar adoption has been an important topic of research, but few analyses have been done in Europe in the past decades. We used a systems approach combining a survey among stakeholders in the food chain and a systematic analysis of the publications of extension services. We identified twelve factors impeding wider adoption of multi-resistant cultivars. These factors explain why current wheat-cropping systems are maintained in a ‘pesticide lock-in’ situation, an economic concept that could be used more frequently to study agricultural innovations. Considering these intangible ‘barriers’ to current and forthcoming innovations is a first step towards a more comprehensive policy to promote sustainable agriculture. Similarities between Wallonia and France are discussed and methods of promoting wide use of resistant cultivars are proposed.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Gaëtan Vanloqueren, Philippe V. Baret, Why are ecological, low-input, multi-resistant wheat cultivars slow to develop commercially? A Belgian agricultural ‘lock-in’ case study, Ecological Economics, Volume 66, Issues 2–3, 2008, Pages 436-446, ISSN 0921-8009, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolecon.2007.10.007.
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
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Publication of October 31st 2023PhD thesis
Exploring Intercropping in Market Gardening : A story of combinations
Results found in the presentation :
- Intercropping, an agroecological practice consisting in growing distinct crops on the same plot at the same time, may play a role in the transition to sustainable agriculture thanks to its benefits, e.g. higher yield, lesser use of pesticides. In recent years, it has experienced a particular boom in market gardening and there are now countless mainstream market gardening books dealing with it. However, its use by professional market gardeners remains low. The most likely reason is that intercropping is more complex than the image conveyed by these books and very little objective data is available to help market gardeners in its relevant implementation. This PhD thesis tackles the issue of intercropping in market gardening with the aim of providing market gardeners with knowledge and reliable in for mation enlightening management choices. We begin by listing the interactions observed in intercropping, both between the associated crops and with their environment, and present them as networks. We then investigate the prediction of intercropping outcome based on complementarity principles by comparing the results of various intercrops in on-field trials. We show the importance of the difference in sowing date, growth dynamics and maximum soil coverage between crops in the determination of yield gain and yield gain asymmetry in intercrops. Finally, we address the issue of yield inter-site variability by comparing the growth of three intercrops in different farms, using participatory trials. We explain our methodology and show the consistency of intercrops relative yield in a range of environmental conditions and crop management practices. Our approach is purposely exploratory. This thesis paves the way for the scientific study of intercropping in market gardening and highlights some key points for the use of intercropping by market gardeners. The PhD thesis is available here.
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Publication of May 14th 2024Report
Financing the agro-ecological transition of food systems in the Walloon region
Results found in the abstract :
- Establishment of a reference framework for assessing the political and economic framework for the agro-ecological transition of agricultural and food systems in the Walloon Region
Results found in the presentation :
- This research is part of an ef for t to analyse the political and economic framework for the transition of agri-food systems to agroecological models in the Walloon Region. The results of the study reveal that 10% of the budgets allocated to the agricultural and food sectors between 2019 and 2024 in Wallonia are actually devoted to agroecology, highlighting an existing but too limited interest in this theme. Analysis of the distribution of this funding leads us to conclude that a considerable proportion of the funding granted by the Walloon Region remains of an adaptive nature, suggesting the need for bolder thinking to direct more public resources towards a profound and inclusive transition. This reflection should focus as much on the agro-ecological principles supported as on the budgets and timescales of the funding mobilised. However, it should be noted that these results must be interpreted with caution. The methodology used allows us to report on the intentions of projects and funding, but not on their actual impact. In addition, the benchmarks used ( HLPE and Gliessman ) are evaluation tools and do not capture all the nuances of reality on the ground. These results there for e serve as a starting point for further reflection on the position of the Walloon Region in relation to the agro-ecological transition. In addition, this study highlights the administrative complexity within the Walloon Region, particularly with regard to the lack of publicly accessible data, which can act as a real brake on effective steering of the transition and identification of priority areas for intervention.
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Publication of March 1st 2024Communication
Launch of a new study on opportunities for the production of seeds in Wallonia
Results found in the abstract :
- The new project Semences d’Ici aims to promote seed production and the adoption of vegetables varieties suitable for the region of Wallonia.
Results found in the presentation :
- Over the period 2023-2026, this project will address the following questions: Which varieties can be produced and are relevant for the cultivation of vegetables in Wallonia, in terms of reproducible varieties? What types of contracts and fair prices should be practiced between seed producers ( multipliers ) and seed companies, depending on the species? What are the technical, economic and organizational needs to facilitate seed production? What financing methods can be considered to support the sector? Expected results Documentation of technical routes to link the operational needs of market gardeners to the feasibility of production in Wallonia Market study to identify strategic varietal choices. Development of contractual tools and a fair price benchmark, with a view to equitable and sustainable development of the sector. Assessment of needs in terms of management and coverage of agroecological innovation risk Characterization of technico-economic models of seed multiplication and essential success factors Design of the tools necessary for setting up a selection program Partners involved Asbl Les Marequiers Cycle-on-Earth Sytra ( UCLouvain ) CRA-W Horti for um Biowallonia
Results found in the publication context :
- This project is financed by the Walloon Government as part of the subsidy for “30 small-scale infrastructures and 4 emerging sectors to support production, storage, transport, microprocessing, distribution, valorization of by-products and marketing of the products of these four sectors” of the National Plan for Recovery and Resilience. This support is financed by the European Union ( NextGenerationEU ).
Results found in approaches and methods :
- Economic performance, Participatory approach, …
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Publication of January 31st 2019Report
The dairy sector in Wallonia : Current situation and scenarios towards 2050
Results found in the presentation :
- This study provides an overview of the Walloon dairy sector, highlighting the diversity of production systems and the components of downstream flows. In a second step, it presents a comparison of different prospective scenarios. This study was carried out in an iterative and participatory manner. It is based on the literature, available statistical data, and the knowledge of experts in the sector provided during individual interviews and collective focus group discussions. The results of the study are presented in more detail in the attached documents ( in French ).
Results found in the publication context :
- This study was carried out within the framework of the agreement “Étude relative à la mise en œuvre d’un passage du modèle agricole actuel à un modèle sans produits phytopharmaceutiques et à usage limité d’engrais chimiques” ( “ Study on the implementation of a transition from the current agricultural model to a model without plant protection products and with limited use of chemical fertilisers” ) established with the UCLouvain by the Walloon Minister of the Environment, Ecological Transition, Spatial Planning, Mobility and Transport and Animal Welfare.
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Publication of October 1st 2015Report
The imbalance in research funding : the case of organic farming in EU.
Results found in the main url :
Results found in the abstract :
- A report for the European Greens on the funding of organic farming.
Results found in the presentation :
- Organic farming is gaining legitimacy in the media and political agenda, but is still considered as alternative in the research agenda. Comparing the funding of research programs in agriculture, biotechnology and organic farming at the EU level and in four countries ( France, Belgium, Germany and The Netherlands ) will render this imbalance more visible ( part 1 ). Within this unfavourable context, a series of specific research initiatives should be emphasized ( part 2 ). The potential of organic farming in the transition towards more sustainable food systems will be demonstrated along two lines. On the one hand, a review of scientific literature across the different dimensions of sustainability demonstrates the relative efficiency of the organic farming approach to address the main issues of the XXIst century in agriculture and food systems ( part 3 ). On the other hand, four case studies illustrate the specificities and impact of research specifically supporting organic farming ( part 4 )
Results found in the publication context :
- A study for the European Greens
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Results found in the abstract :
- Project aiming to clarify the theoretical concepts and best practices regarding payment schemes that reward farmers for environmental services. Project funded by the Walloon Public Service ( SPW ) as part of the Terraé action plan.
Results found in the presentation :
- The Walloon Public Service ( SPW ), as part of its action plan for agroecological transition – Terraé, commissioned a study from Climact and Sytra ( UCLouvain ). The objectives of the study , carried out between October 2022 and June 2024, are twofold : To clarify the theoretical foundations related to these payment schemes to better understand how they work and grasp the main issues and challenges. To establish a methodological guide that ensures the scientific and ethical credibility of these schemes. Results are available in two reports ( French ) and an executive summary ( English ).
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Publication of October 5th 2020Report
Towards a sustainable food supply for the city of Brussels : Opportunities in and around the urban context
Results found in the abstract :
- How self-sufficient is the city of Brussels today in terms of its food supply? To what extent can urban agriculture be developed to feed the population? What are the possible pathways for feeding Brussels in a more sustainable way?
Results found in the presentation :
- This study focuses on the food supply of the city of Brussels. The aim is to provide an analysis of this food supply and to estimate the extent to which the Brussels-Capital Region has the necessary resources to meet the food demand of its inhabitants, potentially enabling it to move towards greater urban food autonomy or towards a relevant reorganisation of its supply within a wider area. More specifically, this research work had three specific objectives: a. To develop a methodological and conceptual framework which allows and facilitates the analysis of the food supply of cities and territories; b. To document the current situation in terms of food supply in the city of Brussels; and c. To evaluate different possible prospective pathways for the future food supply of Brussels, up to 2050. More detailed results are presented in the attached documents ( in French ).
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Results found in the abstract :
- Pesticides are widely used in agricultural systems. In collaboration with the BASIC team in Paris, we published the first assessment of the cost of pesticide use for the budget of the French state. A scientific paper published in Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems ( open access )
Results found in the presentation :
- The paper is available in Open Access. The modern agricultural production system relies heavily on the use of synthetic pesticides, but over the course of recent decades various concerns have been raised on the associated negative externalities touching a variety of dimensions, such as human health and the environment. Yet, the magnitude of those effects is still unclear and data availability is scattered and heterogenous across dimensions, regions, and time. The public sector is called upon to develop and implement strategies to face those externalities and their associated social costs. This study aims to provide an assessment of social costs of pesticides in France in the prospect of an integration to the public budget spending, helping public authorities to identify financial flows of public funding with an impact perspective, within a methodological framework based on the social norms at the core of the public system. The results show that the social costs attributable to synthetic pesticide use in France amounted to 372 million euros, of which environmental costs are estimated at least at 291.5 million euros, health costs at least at 48.5 million euros, regulation at least at 31.9 million euros and public financial support to the sector at least at 0.4 million euros. For comparison, this total value of social costs represents more than 10% of the annual budget in 2017 of the French Ministry of Agriculture and Food ( 3,587 million euros ). The analysis can be used as a monitoring indicator for the implementation of public policies in the context of the growing social and environmental issues they face.
Results found in the publication context :
- The research article is the result of the collaboration with the BASIC, with whom we have create since quite some time a form of alliance, sharing common vision of the future and nourishing each other’s missions.
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
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Results found in the abstract :
- A list of 14 criteria for defining a fair price and helping actors designing innovative value chains.
Results found in the presentation :
- For encouraging farmers to undertake crop diversification, the price of the new crops should provide additional value compared to more common crops. In the context of the EU-funded project DiverIMPACTS, a list of 14 criteria for defining a fair price were identified. A related questionnaire was developed for helping actors discussing the price level and design innovative value chains. These tools were tested in CS18 ( Belgium ) and presented in various contexts ( France, Sweden, UK ). A fair pricing process can strengthen actors’ capacity for innovating and creating sustainable, fair value chains. By going through the list of fair pricing criteria, farmers and other value chains actors can get an overview of the concept of fair price. The related questionnaire allows actors to assess the current status of pricing in their value chain, and to identify which fair pricing criteria are the most important and relevant for the future of their project. A webinar during which these tools were presented is also available here. These documents can be consulted and used under the principles of Creative Commons licences. May you refer to our work, we kindly ask you to quote SYTRA, UCLouvain as a source.
Results found in approaches and methods :
- Economic performance, …
Results found in download buttons :
- Practice abstract. Questionnaire for actors. Recommendations. Powerpoint presnetation. …
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Results found in the presentation :
- We conduct research and provide strategic analysis in the agriculture and food sector Our team focuses on agricultural and food systems, the challenges and opportunities they face and the related transition processes. Multidimensionality Interdisciplinarity Participatory approaches Multiple scales Our approach looks at environmental, economic and social challenges of farm and food systems, striking to balance ecological boundaries and society’s essential needs. Embracing interdisciplinarity, our work integrates agronomy with political, economic, and social sciences to address the complexity of food systems. By using participatory approaches, we value diverse experiential knowledge and produce results grounded in the realities of farm and food systems. Our approach looks at multiple scales of transition, including the meso-level which bridges micro-level practices with macro-level policies. Multidimensionality Our approach looks at environmental, economic and social challenges of farm and food systems, striking to balance ecological boundaries and society’s essential needs. Interdisciplinarity Embracing interdisciplinarity, our work integrates agronomy with political, economic, and social sciences to address the complexity of food systems. Participatory approaches By using participatory approaches, we value diverse experiential knowledge and produce results grounded in the realities of farm and food systems. Multiple scales Our approach looks at multiple scales of transition, including the meso-level which bridges micro-level practices with macro-level policies. What are the characteristics of current cropping and livestock systems? We characterize the cropping and livestock systems, through a variety of indicators related to production, inputs use, externalities. This approach allows for a concrete analysis of the strengths and challenges of the different production systems. We highlight practices and production systems based on the principles of agroecology. How are the food value chains organised? How do the actors of the food system interact? We analyse and describe the agrifood chains and organisations. We look at the possible evolution of the actors and value chains, taking into account lock-in phenomena hindering transition dynamics. We identify technical, economic and political levers for action. Which horizons can we envision for the agriculture and food related activities in our regions? We develop prospective scenarios illustrating possible pathways towards 2050. Scenarios can help define and support transition dynamics in the agricultural and food systems. The scenarios can be trend-based or pursue specific sustainability objectives, such as reducing the use of pesticides and taking climate issues into account. Our partners are regional institutions, European funds, non-governmental organizations and foundations.
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Results found in the abstract :
- In the context of the EU-funded DiverIMPACTS project, we will present tools and analysis for helping crop diversification case studies developing fair value chains.
Results found in the presentation :
- Please register. You can then access the meeting with the link below. Direct link to the meeting ( Zoom meeting on Friday 11th of December 9-10am ) . This workshop is for DiverIMPACTS and Diverfarming partners. In the context of the Work Package 5 focusing on barriers and enablers to crop diversification, and in collaboration with the Case Study 18 team, tools are being developed for helping value chains actors reflect on and establish a fair price. 9-9.30am: Introduction Team, objectives and approach of T5.3 Presentation of CS18 Pricing in the context of crop diversification Presentation of the ‘fair pricing’ tools developed 9.30-10am: Collaborative workshop Discussion with other CSs and partners on opportunities for application in other contexts
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Publication of July 17th 2024Research article
The paradoxes of the protein transition maintain existing animal production and consumption systems
Results found in the presentation :
- The shift towards reduced consumption of animal-based products, referred to as the protein transition, is increasingly viewed as an opportunity to drive sustainable food systems trans for mations. Here we explore three central paradoxes of the protein transition. The first underscores the focus on substituting animal proteins with alternative sources, rather than reducing overall protein consumption. The second focuses on the search for new protein sources, rather than tackling overconsumption and overproduction. The third involves the continued export of animal proteins from Europe, a practice defended under the guise of food security, efficiency and comparative advantage. These narratives dominate public discourse, justifying existing production and consumption patterns, shaping perceptions and influencing decisions and policies that impact the future direction of our food systems. Given the influence of stakeholders’ narratives in the transition, we advocate for a holistic and systemic perspective that transcends isolated and quick-fix solutions to foster coherent strategies to advance the protein transition. The paper is available in the scientific journal Nature.
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
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Event of February 18th 2022Conference
DiverIMPACTS webinar: Small-scale sorting of pulses and grains
Results found in the abstract :
- In this webinar, an example of machinery and operations for sorting multiple crops on the farm was presented.
Results found in the presentation :
- The challenges of crop diversification appear not only for the production in the fields, but also at the post-harvest stage. What are the options for sorting and packing pulses/crop diversification production at a small scale level? In this DiverIMPACTS webinar, Per Modig ( Sweden ) presented the machinery and operations he has set in his farm for sorting multiple crops. In particular, in for mation were shared on the following topics: the machinery; the learning/experimentation process; the financial aspect: investment/costs/return on investment; challenges. The presentation was followed by a time for questions and discussion. Watch the recording The webinar took place on 18 Feb. 2022 09:00 – 10:30 AM Bruxelles. It was recorded and is now available on the following link: Webinar small-scale sorting of multiple crops Password to access the webinar: DiverIMPACTS@WP5
Results found in approaches and methods :
- Economic performance, …
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Publication of March 12th 2020Research article
A variety of crop diversification strategies in Europe
Results found in the presentation :
- Innovations supporting a shift towards more sustainable food systems can be developed within the dominant food system regime, or in alternative niches. No study has compared the challenges faced in each context. This paper, based on an analysis of 25 cases of European innovations that support crop diversification, explores the extent to which barriers to crop diversification can be related to the proximity of innovation settings with dominant food systems. Drawing on a qualitative analysis of interviews and participatory brainstorming, we highlight 46 different barriers to crop diversification across the cases, at different levels: production; downstream operations from farm to retailing, marketing and consumers; and con- tracts and coordination between actors. To characterise the diversity of innovation strategies at food system level, we introduce the concept of “food system innovation settings” combining: ( i ) the type of innovative practice promoted at farm level; ( ii ) the type of value chain sup- porting that innovation; and ( iii ) the type of agriculture involved ( organic or conventional ). Through a multiple correspondence analysis, we show different patterns of barriers to crop diversification according to three ideal-types of food system innovation settings: ( i ) “Changing from within”, where longer rotations are fostered on conventional farms involved in commodity supply chains; ( ii ) “Building outside”, where crop diversification integrates intercropping on organic farms involved in local supply chains; and ( iii ) “Playing horizontal”, where actors pro- mote alternative crop diversification strategies—either strictly speaking horizontal at spatial level ( e.g. strip cropping ) or socially horizontal ( arrangement between farmers )–without directly challenging the vertical organisation of dominant value chains. We recommend designing targeted research and policy actions according to the food systems they seek to develop. We then discuss further development of our approach to analyse barriers faced in intermediate and hybrid food system configurations.
Results found in the publication reference :
- Morel K, Revoyron E, San Cristobal M, Baret PV ( 2020 ) Innovating within or outside dominant food systems? Different challenges for contrasting crop diversification strategies in Europe. PLoS ONE 15( 3 ): e0229910. https://doi. org/10.1371/journal.pone.0229910
Results found in the publication context :
- This research was undertaken in the context of the EU project DiverIMPACTS.
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
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Publication of June 21st 2021Poster
An operational definition of Conservation Agriculture to categorize the diversity of models in a given territory
Results found in the presentation :
- Conservation Agriculture ( CA ) is not a uniform agrarian system, but rather contains multiple models to fit the constraints and needs of farmers. Although the presence of a diversity of models in Wallonia has already been relayed several times, the models are not yet known and identified. Knowledge of these models is necessary to assess their economic, social and environmental potential. To categorize the models present in a given territory, a typology based on the definition of CA must be constructed. But which definition of CA should be used as a reference? Three pillars are commonly accepted within the scientific community as the foundations of CA. Nevertheless, there is a lack of clear indications regarding the practical implementation of the pillars to enable the definition to be operational on the field. Moreover, the definitions diverge and contradict each other within the various scientific papers. A literature review of the convergences and divergences is conducted among fourteen sources to construct a working definition of CA that can be used to establish a typology. The analysis of these sources revealed a definition of CA comprising the three fundamental pillars, combined with additional practices. While pillars distinguish CA from other farming systems, additional practices facilitate the adoption and the sustainability of a CA model. This definition provides a comprehensive conceptual framework that is applicable and modifiable to all regions where CA is practiced. It has been adapted to respond to the local context. Typologies can be constructed from this operational definition of CA to study the diversity of CA practices.
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the poster. …
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Results found in the presentation :
- This Master thesis aims to shed light on the seed sector in Wallonia, and more specifically on the production of open-pollinated seeds pf vegetable varieties. The research allowed to identify the technical and economic models as well as the associated barriers and levers. During the 2022 season, two surveys, in the for m of semi-directed interviews, were carried out with professionals having a wide understanding of the sector, as well as with farmers multiplying open-pollinated vegetables varieties for the Belgian seed companies « Cycle en Terre » and « Semailles » Based on the in for m ation collected, the main results are as follows: ( i ) a conceptual framework for the combination of vegetable production and seed multiplication, ( ii ) a summary of the operations for seed multiplication, ( iii ) a typology identifying three main technical and economic models, ( iv ) the barriers and levers to the development of the multiplication of vegetable seeds open-populations in Wallonia. The results provide leads to conclusions that allow current and future players to have a base of in for m ation and to position themselves in relation to current models.
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Publication of April 24th 2020Research article
Pathways of action followed by Flemish beef farmers – agroecology as a practice
Results found in the abstract :
- Agroecology is often brought up as an alternative development pathway for livestock systems. Yet, what does it mean in practice? In this article we find out by asking beef farmers themselves how they put agroecological principles into practice.
Results found in the presentation :
- In the face of longstanding social and technological trends, the application of agroecological insights at beef farms in Flanders may at first seem a curious proposition. We found, however, that beef farmers pursue agroecological principles through an impressive diversity of practices. In 37 semi-structured interviews, we asked farmers how they put into practice a set of principles which covers many themes addressed in agroecological literature. Inspired by a grounded theory approach, but also based on literature and consultation of fellow researchers, we conceptualized for each principle distinctive pathways of action to categorize relevant practices. By documenting farmers’ practices, we show that an agronomic interpretation of agroecology as a practice obfuscates the many ways farmers can contribute to the social dimensions of agroecology too, which also problematizes those food systems approaches that undervalue the farmers’ agency in changing their social context themselves. This grounded conceptual framework may be used to further assess how each beef farmer addresses these different principles together in practice. Given these results and perspectives, we contend that empirical inquiries such as these are instrumental in maintaining the connection between agroecological theory and practice, allowing both to move dialectically for ward.
Results found in the publication context :
- This study took place in the context of a doctoral research on the topic of “Agroecology in the Flemish bovine sector”.
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the scientific paper. …
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Publication of June 4th 2021PhD thesis
Challenges of collective agency in transition pathways : the case of the Walloon dairy sector
Results found in the presentation :
- This Ph.D. aims at clarifying the future trajectories of the Walloon dairy sector, based on a study of the strategies and constraints of dairy cooperatives as collective agents. From a systemic perspective, the Ph.D. considers, on the one hand, the dairy cooperatives’ strategies within a given context, and the impact of that context on their strategies. On the other hand, dairy cooperatives are approached as structures of collective action, interplaying in terms of governance with its farmers-members. The focus lies on an in-depth understanding of the factors enabling or disabling certain trajectories, in particular the trajectories of product diversification ( productions other than drinking milk, milk powder, butter; productions relying on a definition of milk quality broader than that of industrial standard raw material ). The Ph.D. consists of four parts: a historical investigation, an analysis of coordination models in the dairy value chain, a study of the co-existence of cooperative models today, and a zoom on how farmers relate to the dairy value chain. The Ph.D. uncovers that different models of horizontal and vertical coordination may co-exist, beyond the classic model of vertical integration, and that a combination of different models of coordination may support a transition towards a diversification of dairy productions at regional scale. The Ph.D. also highlights a structural tension between the short-term interests of the dairy farmers as milk suppliers and their long-term interests as cooperative members. This tension can influence the strategic choices of cooperatives, which implies that attention must be paid on how dairy farmers relate to collective action.
Results found in the publication context :
- This research was conducted with the financial support of the Fonds de la Recherche Scientifique – FNRS – Fonds pour la Formation à la Recherche dans l’Industrie et dans l’Agriculture FRIA, under the supervision of Prof. Philippe Baret ( Uclouvain ) and Prof. Kevin Marechal ( Uliège )
Results found in download buttons :
- download the PhD. …
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Publication of March 21st 2025Presentation
Agri-environmental schemes governance - a systematic literature review
Results found in the presentation :
- 🌍🌱 Reflecting on Agri-Environmental Governance in the CAP 🌱🌍 On the 21 March, we had the opportunity to present at a seminar on The Common Agricultural Policy ( CAP ) and the Environment, exploring the ( in- )effectiveness of agri-environmental policy instruments, hosted by the IEE/CEDRE – at the campus UCLouvain SaintLouis 🎤📖 🔍 Our colleague’s Diana Borniotto presentation focused on how governance models shape the environmental per for mance of Agri-Environmental Schemes ( AES ). 💡 A key takeaway? The balance between policy relevance and policy coherence remains a critical challenge. ⚖️ The discussion deepened with insights from environmental law scholars, highlighting how CAP Regulation 2021/2115 rein for ces a fragmented approach to agri-environmental measures rather than fostering systemic coherence. As a result, policies often fail to capitalize on synergies between measures, limiting both environmental effectiveness and farmers’ decision-making frameworks. 💡 Key takeaways from our interdisciplinary exchange: 🔹 CAP’s governance logic tends toward scattered measures rather than integrated systems, weakening environmental impact 🔹 Design choices matter—coherence between measures is as crucial as their individual effectiveness 🔹 Actors’ engagement is shaped by governance structures; environmental and agricultural actors are not on the same footing in the decision-making processes of AES and, more broadly, the CAP’s green architecture 🔹 Implementation trade-offs—transaction costs along with administrative burdens should be reduced through effective governance processes, without compromising budgetary accountability 🔗 Interdisciplinary approaches help us tackle these complexities by bridging insights from policy analysis, law, and governance. We would like to thank CEDRE for hosting us and providing a great space for discussion!
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- Download presentation. …
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- Futures4Food a transdisciplinary research project funded by BELSPO How to engage actors in transition reflection mobilizing system thinking approach? Two cases study - From feed to food paradigm in the cereals sector and the protein shift
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- In the framework of the Futures4Food programme -a transdisciplinary research project funded by BELSPO-, Flanders Business School, KU Leuven and Université Catholique de Louvain are pleased to invite you to their closing event on research in the field of food system transitions. The Futures4Food project initiated, developed, supported and analysed two participative trajectories with a specific emphasis on building collective system knowledge as well as target and trans for mation knowledge. These two trajectories were conducted within the agri-food value chain in Belgium: the transition in cereal production from feed to food ( “Futures4Food cereal dynamic” ) and the transition in consumption from animal to plant proteins ( “Flemish Green Deal Protein Shift on our plate” ). During their closing event, the Futures4Food team will share their insights through presentations and a panel discussion, with room for exchange: What is the status of these two transitions at the level of different stakeholders including policy makers? What initiatives are ongoing to accelerate these two transitions? How can food system stakeholders further accelerate these two transitions? We welcome all types of food system stakeholders, including private actors, civil servants and academics. The online registration for m is available here. The deadline for registration is the 21st of February.
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Results found in the presentation :
- Louis obtained a MsC. Agricultural Sciences ( UGent ) in 2016. Since then, he’s working as a junior research er at ILVO in Merelbeke. In his doctoral research Louis explores how agroecology, in all its dimensions, is and can be put into practice by Flemish beef farmers. He is passionate about the political economic dynamics mediating contemporary food systems transitions both locally and globally.
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Event of June 12th 2024Conference
187th Seminar of the European Association of Agricultural Economists (EAAE)
Results found in the presentation :
- Presentations Clémentine Antier: “Barriers to the Adoption of Open-Pollinated Varieties in the Organic Farming Sector: A Case Study of Small-Scale Vegetable Production in France” Anton Riera: “A Framework for Fair Prices and Governance Mechanisms to Support Sustainable Farming and Innovative Value Chains” Océane Duluins: “The Paradoxes of the Protein Transition” Posters Louis Tessier: “Encouraging farmers towards sustainable farming systems through business & policy strategies – a supporting framework” These contributions aim to shed light on significant issues within the agricultural and food sectors, highlighting innovative research and practical solutions.
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Publication of May 28th 2021Research article
Bridging the gap between the agroecological ideal and its implementation into practice. A review
Results found in the presentation :
- Despite the increasingly widespread use of the term agroecology by farmers, scientists, agrarian social movements, and lawmakers, the definition of the concept is still the object of controversies. Current interpretations range widely, from fully transdisciplinary and interdisciplinary definitions integrating ecological, socioeconomic, and political dimensions of agriculture, to more narrow definitions of agroecology as a discipline bridging ecology and agronomy. No less importantly, few actors have developed criteria and methodologies to identify and evaluate agroecological systems based on both ecological and socioeconomic dimensions. The lack of consistency in the study and application of “agroecology,” resulting from varying definitions for agroecology and the absence of standardized methodologies to identify agroecological systems, is problematic. It limits the recognition of associated benefits and disadvantages of different agroecological systems, as well as the identification of drivers that favor the implementation of agroecological practices. While lessons learned from individual case studies are valuable and showcase the potential of agroecology, results are not always relevant to other contexts. Here, we review existing theoretical and empirical agroecological literature. The major points that emerge are the following: ( 1 ) we integrate six historical ecological principles with seven socioeconomic principles to propose an overarching framework for recognizing systems oriented towards agroecology; ( 2 ) the implementation of different principles may vary greatly across spatial scales or governance contexts; ( 3 ) there are numerous barriers that farmers may face in their transition towards an agroecological “ideal”—this highlights the need for improved recognition of systems in transition, as well as the need for supportive policies to scale up agroecology. The application of two complementary methodological approaches presented in our review has the potential to help practitioners evaluate to what extent a system can be considered as agroecological based on ecological and socioeconomic principles.
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- Research article, …
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Publication of July 22nd 2019Presentation
Understanding agricultural systems and their evolution: a focus on Wallonia
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- How has Walloon agriculture evolved over the past ten years? What is the share of organic agriculture? How to measure the use of pesticides? What scenarios can we envisage for the future? This booklet provides data and analysis to foster debate on those questions.
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- In the Walloon Region, as in many European regions, the agricultural sector faces the challenge of reconciling the productive aims of agriculture, reducing its environmental impact and maintaining employment and good working conditions. What are the main characteristics of the agricultural sector in Wallonia nowadays? Which paths can we consider in order to reduce the use of pesticides while taking into account these different challenges? This booklet highlights two different trajectories: a trend scenario that continues the evolutions observed over the last ten years, and an agroecological transition scenario in which low-inputs production systems are favored, such as organic farming and ecologically intensive farming. These prospective scenarios ca be used to discuss possible horizons for the Walloon agriculture and trajectories towards a lower use of pesticides. As in any prospective study, the consequences of the scenarios are not to be taken for granted: the ef for ts made over the next few years will make it possible to develop the agricultural system towards greater sustainability.
Results found in download buttons :
- Preview the booklet ( FR ). Download the booklet for print ( FR ). …
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Results found in the presentation :
- Still confidential in Europe in the early 2000s, agroecology is now presented as a credible alternative. The growth of the agroecological movement raises questions about its nature. Does it contribute to a radical break with intensive conventional models, or does it constitute a range of new technical proposals that would allow the current system to evolve from within? In this book entitled Coexistence and confrontation of agricultural and food models: A new paradigm of territorial development, we propose elements to situate innovative approaches within a framework of agroecological transition. The English version of the book is now available. The French version of the book can be downloaded free of charge from the QUAE publishing site.
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Publication of December 21st 2017PhD thesis
Working and employment conditions in market gardening: which agroecological transition?
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- Several scientists, social movements and politicians are promoting agroecology as a major way to develop quality working conditions for producers and their agricultural workers. However, empirical studies on the subject are rare and, among them, some are very sceptical on this point. This gap between a strong normative ideal and a poorly studied empirical reality has created a debate about the capacity of agroecology to participate in the development of sustainable agriculture. The thesis sheds light on this debate by analysing the working conditions of producers and the conditions of employment of their workers in the production of vegetables for the fresh market in the Walloon Region ( Belgium ), ranging from market gardening on small surfaces to the production of vegetables in field crops, both in agroecological, organic and conventional agriculture. First, an operational definition of agroecology, including its socio-economic dimensions, is proposed, as well as an analysis grid of the working conditions of producers and the employment of their farm workers. Then, these managers are confronted with the reality on the ground. The results show that there is a plurality of for ms of agroecology. Not all of them have the same degree of long-term viability, while they offer producers and their workers contrasting working and employment conditions. This thesis demonstrates the value of an interdisciplinary approach within a comparative, comprehensive and systemic epistemology to explore the issues of work in agriculture and to overcome the divide between normative and empirical approaches.
Results found in approaches and methods :
- Economic performance, Participatory approach, …
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the thesis in French. …
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Publication of June 20th 2023Communication
The protein transition: Is the protein transition missing a silver bullet?
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- The presentation highlights that the protein transition, often focused on consumption shifts, overlooks the broader food system and production dynamics. It emphasizes the need for a balanced approach, integrating environmental, health, and socio-technological aspects.
Results found in the presentation :
- The presentation explores the concept of the protein transition, which seeks to address the unsustainability of current protein production and consumption practices. It identifies three key targets of the transition: reducing environmental impacts, providing healthy diets, and addressing the negative effects of industrial livestock systems. A systematic review revealed that the protein transition is primarily defined as a shift in consumption patterns but often overlooks production and broader food system dynamics. The presentation outlines three main narratives—consumer-driven, techno-centric, and socio-technological—and highlights the risks of imbalance if one narrative dominates. It calls for a broader perspective, acknowledging different viewpoints and ensuring that solutions are effective in tackling the core issues. Presentation WUR_Duluins_V4_last
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Publication of June 21st 2021Working paper
An operational definition of Conservation Agriculture to categorize the diversity of models in a given territory
Results found in the presentation :
- Conservation Agriculture ( CA ) is not a uniform agrarian system, but rather contains multiple models to fit the constraints and needs of farmers. Although the presence of a diversity of models in Wallonia has already been relayed several times, the models are not yet known and identified. Knowledge of these models is necessary to assess their economic, social and environmental potential. To categorize the models present in a given territory, a typology based on the definition of CA must be constructed. But which definition of CA should be used as a reference? Three pillars are commonly accepted within the scientific community as the foundations of CA. Nevertheless, there is a lack of clear indications regarding the practical implementation of the pillars to enable the definition to be operational on the field. Moreover, the definitions diverge and contradict each other within the various scientific papers. A literature review of the convergences and divergences is conducted among fourteen sources to construct a working definition of CA that can be used to establish a typology. The analysis of these sources revealed a definition of CA comprising the three fundamental pillars, combined with additional practices. While pillars distinguish CA from other farming systems, additional practices facilitate the adoption and the sustainability of a CA model. This definition provides a comprehensive conceptual framework that is applicable and modifiable to all regions where CA is practiced. It has been adapted to respond to the local context. Typologies can be constructed from this operational definition of CA to study the diversity of CA practices.
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Results found in the presentation :
- The grey literature attributes many benefits to aerated compost teas, but are these claims justified? To answer this question, we conducted a brief review of recent scientific literature on the subject. The aim of this brochure is to present the results of this work. It is aimed at anyone interested in this subject, whether they be researchers, farmers, advisers or even amateur gardeners. The brochure is available in French only.
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- This brochure has been written as part of the CERES – Agricultures en Transition 2022 project, the aim of which is to study the effects of various bio-intrants on soil ecosystem services, nutritional quality of food and agricultural productivity. The project is run by Fermes Universitaires and Ferme de Sarte, and is financed by the Baillet-Latour Fund.
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the brochure ( fr ). …
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Publication of April 22nd 2025Report
Contextualizing PARCEL-Wallonie Simulations: Perspectives, Tensions, and Case Studies
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- This report presents the simulations carried out for the Walloon Region using PARCEL-Wallonie and discusses the tensions related to their implementation. It also illustrates the practical use of the tool through three case studies conducted with actors in Wallonia.
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- This project was carried out with the financial support of Wallonia, as part of a grant awarded for the 2022–2024 period by the Minister for the Environment, Nature, Rural Affairs, and Animal Welfare, who is also responsible for Sustainable Development. It for ms part of the implementation of the Walloon Food Strategy, coordinated by the Sustainable Development Direction of the Walloon Public Service ( SPW ).
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the report in French. …
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Publication of February 14th 2024Report
Scenarios for multi-sector agricultural transition in the Walloon Region
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Results found in the abstract :
- Development of a prospective tool to draw up scenarios for multi-sector agricultural transitions, taking into account the diversity of production systems, agricultural regions and the effect of crop successions.
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- Study commissioned by SPW ARNE – Department of Environment and Water ( DEE )
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Publication of February 16th 2023Presentation
Stronger together, but how? Lessons from the Walloon dairy history on the strategic relevance of cooperative models
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- Oral presentation made at the ICA-CCR 2022 European Research Conference ( linked to a published paper )
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- Agri-food cooperatives evolved towards a diversity of cooperative models, understood as modes of horizontal and vertical coordination of the value chain. This historical investigation in for ms theory and practice on the strategic relevance of cooperative models for prospective pathways of value chain development. The paper draws on coordination models encountered in the trajectories of consolidation of Walloon dairy cooperatives over the last sixty years. A SWOT analysis based on historical accounts outlines the strengths and weaknesses of cooperative models on several dimensions underpinning their long-term strategic relevance: their cost-efficiency and strategic efficiency in a given market and institutional context, and their impact on commitment. The paper discusses the interplay of cooperative models and contextual factors, from social capital to regulatory frameworks, in the agri-food sector and beyond. The paper identifies cost-efficiency and strategic efficiency as outcomes emerging at the crossover of multiple dimensions. Ostrom’s Institutional Analysis and Development framework ( IAD ) framework illustrates the contextual anchoring of these outcomes. The framework suggests avenues of collective mobilization and future research to manage cooperative models in sustainable value chain development and prevent demutualization. On this basis, the paper outlines the relevance of longitudinal and historically in for med studies on cooperative development.
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- Download the presentation. …
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Results found in the presentation :
- The objectives of this PhD thesis are the following : Take stock of the current situation in terms of the pesticides use in the Province of Luxembourg and establish a network of model farms ; Characterise to what extent agricultural soils of the Province of Luxembourg are polluted by pesticides ; assess and compare on-field pesticides residues for different crops and cultural practices ( conventional agriculture, organic agriculture, other innovative practices ) Design prospective transition scenarios towards a reduced use of pesticides in the Province of Luxembourg, while ensuring the profitability of agricultural systems ; Disentangle benefits, costs and risks associated with the use of pesticides and identify lock-ins, barriers and levers towards the development of agricultural practices which are not / less dependent on the use of pesticides and adapted to the agricultural and pedoclimatic contexts of the Province of Luxembourg. The project is presented in more detail in the attached documents ( in French ):
Results found in approaches and methods :
- Economic performance, Environmental footprint, Levers, Literature review, Lock-in, Participatory approach, Path dependency, Prospective scenarios, …
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Publication of January 2nd 2016Research article
Clarifying the socioeconomic dimensions of agroecology: between principles and practices
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- The concept of agroecology is being mobilized increasingly. However, its socioeconomic dimensions receive little attention from academia. This study helps to clarify the socioeconomic principles of agroecology by first identifying a list of principles in popular and scientific literature and, as a second step, by putting the principles to the test of a qualitative study of two Belgian organizations. Agribio is a grain cooperative, and Les Grosses Légumes is a network of consumers, farmers, and the members of an association set up to organize the production and distribution of vegetable boxes. Semi-directed interviews of the various actors linked to these organizations were conducted and then analyzed through an approach inspired by the convention theory in order to reveal the principles that the stakeholders have adopted. The main findings are then made explicit by analysis of four strong agreements ( which concern the two organizations’ marketing schemes, a Participatory Guarantee System set up by Les Grosses Légumes and Agribio’s flour mill ). The two case studies show the gap that exists between the principles that describe the horizon of agroecology and the principles that are actually put into practice by the parties in the field through various transition pathways.
Results found in approaches and methods :
- Economic performance, Participatory approach, …
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- Research article, …
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- Download the scientific paper . …
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Publication of May 31st 2022Communication
Crop diversification: the importance of a value chain approach
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- The implementation of crop diversification requires multiple changes, not only within farming systems but also in terms of creation and development of new value chains. Providing support for the many actors that compose and contribute to new value chains, and ensuring better coordination among them, are thus critical to the development of crop diversification. Key policy recommendations include allocating public and private resources towards actors involved in crop diversification, with special attention paid to the starting and scaling-out phases. Specific support should be provided to help mitigate or share the investment costs and risks along value chains, e.g. through the development of innovative contracts and subsidy schemes. Creating a favorable environment including regulatory stability for new crops, as well as undertaking wide communication campaigns, are critical to increase the share of crop diversification products.
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- Research undertaken in the context of DiverIMPACTS – Diversification through Rotation, Intercropping, Multiple cropping, Promoted with Actors and value-Chains Towards Sustainability
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Results found in the abstract :
- Anne-Maud holds a MSc in Forest & Nature Conservation ( Wageningen University ). She joined Sytra in December 2020.
Results found in the profil :
- Research assistant
Results found in the presentation :
- Anne-Maud holds a MSc in For est & Nature Conservation ( Wageningen University ). She has worked during several years for sustainable management projects and monitoring of for est ecosystems internationally. She joined the Sytra team in December 2020. She contributes to prospective studies on the ecological transition of agro-food systems. She particularly appreciates the inclusive processes that combine the knowledge and experiences of all to bring about sustainable agroecological innovations.
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Results found in the main url :
Results found in the abstract :
- A report on the advantages of organic farming and level of research funding of organic farming in Europe. Paradoxically, high environnemental performances of organic farming are not triggering a significant investment in research
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- Download the full report. …
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Results found in the main url :
Results found in the abstract :
- Research assistant position from February 2024 to January 2025. The mission of this research er will be to support the realization of several studies on agricultural and food transition trajectories.
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- Job description ( in french ) Access via the tab below. How to apply Please send your cover letter and curriculum vitae, combined in a single electronic file, by e-mail to to sytra@uclouvain.be with a copy to caroline.amrom@uclouvain.be with the heading [Recrutement Sytra Recherche 2024] followed by your full name, no later than January 13, 2024. If your application is successful, you will then be contacted for an online interview.
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Publication of May 15th 2016Poster
Transition potential of cheese-processing niche value chains in the Région Herbagère Liégeoise and Haute Ardenne
Results found in the abstract :
- Study on the trajectories and issues faced by the dairy farmers in niche cheese-processing value chains, that uncovers systemic lock-ins to alternative pathways of milk production and processing in the Walloon Region
Results found in the presentation :
- This poster ( in French ) was made as part of an application for the HERA master thesis award Sustainable Food 2016
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- Poster made for the HERA master thesis award Sustainable Food 2016
Results found in download buttons :
- download the poster. …
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Publication of July 2nd 2021Communication
Crop diversification: recommendations for overcoming barriers
Results found in the publication reference :
- Antier, Clémentine, Viguier, Loïc, Messéan, Antoine, & Baret, Philippe V. ( 2021, June 24 ). Recommendations for overcoming barriers to crop diversification towards sustainable agriculture. Zenodo. http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5027530
Results found in the publication context :
- Research undertaken in the context of DiverIMPACTS – Diversification through Rotation, Intercropping, Multiple cropping, Promoted with Actors and value-Chains Towards Sustainability
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Publication of January 1st 2014Research article
Agricultural innovation from above and from below: confrontation and integration on Rwanda’s hills
Results found in the presentation :
- In its 2008 World Development Report, the World Bank pleaded for a ‘Green Revolution’ for sub-Saharan Africa, pointing particularly to the importance of including smallholder farmers. This article focuses on the banana cropping system in Rwanda, and on the agricultural innovations introduced within this system. We first consider macro-level innovations that are designed to promote a modernized agricultural sector and that correspond to the rationale of the Green Revolution. We analyse how such ‘top-down’ innovations are received on the ground and show how smallholders seek to evade new government policies when they fail to reflect local economic and social realities. This demonstrates how some rural Rwandans are challenging the authority of the government in disguised ways in order to protect their local livelihoods. The Rwandan experience should inspire continent-wide Green Revolution policies to take account of the risk-coping rationale of small-scale farmers and their capacity to innovate ‘from below’.
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- Research article, …
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- Download the scientific paper. …
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Event of March 31st 2025Conference
Production and distribution of organic vegetable seeds: Challenges and opportunities for multipliers and seed companies
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- When? Monday 31/03/2025 Where? Online webinar The ‘Semences d’Ici’ project, supported by the Walloon government as part of the Recovery Plan, aims to highlight economic development opportunities in the sector of organic seed production in Europe, especially of open-pollinated vegetables varieties. Through interviews with seed companies and an online survey of seed producers, the project aims to identify the main risks faced by these stakeholders, as well as the risk management tools already in use or that could be implemented. The results also look at the seed market and provides a basis for building up a seed fair price framework. The joint results of these surveys were presented and discussed during at the webinar on 31 March 2025. Webinar replay link This webinar was aimed at all multipliers, vegetable farmers, seed companies and other actors of the sector. The webinar was held in French. However, we will also send a summary of results in English.
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Results found in the profil :
- Research assistant
Results found in the presentation :
- Manon holds a PhD in agricultural science ( UCLouvain ), supervised by Pr. Philippe Baret and with the funding from a FNRS-FRIA grant. Her thesis focused on the study of the diversity of Conservation Agriculture practices and the impact of this diversity on soil quality indicators. Since April 2024, she works as a research assistant in the Sytra team.
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Results found in the abstract :
- ( À traduire ) Bioingénieure de formation à l'UCLouvain, Céline Chevalier réalise une thèse sur l'étude systémique des associations de cultures en maraîchage.
Results found in the profil :
- Research assistant
Results found in the presentation :
- Céline holds a PhD in agricultural science ( UCLouvain ), supervised by Pr.Philippe Baret and Pr. Xavier Draye. Her PhD aimed at studying intercropping in market gardening through an explorative and participatory approach. Since November 2023, she works as a research assistant in the Sytra team.
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Results found in the presentation :
- Océane Duluins holds a Master’s degree in Bioscience Engineering ( 2020 ) from UCLouvain. Her master’s degree focused on forestry sciences. Her PhD research now focuses on the transformation of the agricultural and food system towards sustainability. In particular, Océane’s research focuses on the protein transition. She also is a teaching assistant in biology and systems thinking within the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering.
Results found in current research projects :
- PhD research on the protein transition. …
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Publication of February 5th 2024Presentation
Fair prices for farmers and consumers in the value chain
Results found in the main url :
Results found in the presentation :
- You may download the presentation below. The link to the documents mentioned in the presentation are here : Fine is a price FAO Report SOFA The social cost of pesticides in France Report on EU regulations of externalities – Foodcost Distribution of the margins in cocoa value chains Fairebel website A thesis on the diversity of cooperatives A study of fair price Foodcost project
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Publication of January 15th 2024Communication
Establishment of a sustainable food barometer in Wallonia
Results found in the presentation :
- The main objectif of this barometer is to provide the Region with objective information to enable Wallonia and its stakeholders to speed up the transition to a sustainable food system. It is based on the strategic objectives of the Reference framework « Vers un système alimentaire durable en Wallonie ».
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Publication of June 2nd 2025Report
Multi-faceted biodiversity integration for a healthy Soil and Resilient crop management: Agronomic, environmental and socio-economic assessment
Results found in the presentation :
- The Sytra team will focus on three objectives : Assess the performances ( agronomic, environmental and cost-effectiveness ) of the implemented innovations. Identify barriers/enablers to adoption of innovations at the food system level. Provide a set of policy recommendations to transition towards improved farming practices.
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Publication of April 22nd 2021PhD thesis
The pursuit of agroecological principles by Flemish beef farmers: advancing towards a body of thought for sustainable food systems
Results found in the presentation :
- The Flemish beef sector faces growing economic uncertainty and societal criticisms. Agroecology is regularly proposed as an alternative development pathway, yet what this exactly means in this context is largely unexplored. This doctoral research aimed at investigating the relevance of agroecology to beef farming in Flanders. By gathering and analyzing data from a diverse group of Flemish beef farmers with both qualitative and quantitative methods, this dissertation renders agroecology as a practice more concrete conceptually in this context. The analysis of these farmers accounts also served to lay bare important ambiguities and inadequacies within agroecological thought with regard to the transform ative potential of these agroecological practices, farmers, and the systems they construct. Out of this dialogue between agroecology and farmers thus emerged a more general societal reflection that advances contemporary ideas and practices to transform food systems. A PhD thesis presentation is available here ( video, 44 min ):
Results found in approaches and methods :
- Economic performance, …
Results found in download buttons :
- Download the PhD thesis. …
Results found in files names :
- https://sytra.be/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/manuscript-phd-tessier-2021-public-defense-version-for-print-1.pdf, . …
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Results found in the abstract :
- Agroecologist ( ULiège and ULB ), Noé Vandevoorde is carrying out a PhD thesis on the pathways for decreasing the use of pesticides in Belgium.
Results found in the presentation :
- Agroecologist ( ULiège and ULB ) and holder of a master’s degree in theoretical physics ( ULB ), Noé Vandevoorde is leading a PhD in the Sytra team, funded by the Province of Luxembourg. His thesis focuses on the realization of a state of the art of the use of pesticides and their associated pollutions in the province, as well as on the study of pathways for decreasing the use of pesticides in the Province of Luxembourg.
Results found in current research projects :
- PhD thesis on pathways for reducing agricultural uses of pesticides. …
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Results found in the presentation :
- Presentation on the true cost of food and the link to policy design. To download click on the link just below.
Results found in download buttons :
- Download presentation. …
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Publication of January 31st 2020Report
Six sectors in Wallonia : current situation and scenarios towards 2050
Results found in the publication context :
- This study was carried out within the framework of the agreement “Étude relative à la mise en œuvre d’un passage du modèle agricole actuel à un modèle sans produits phytopharmaceutiques et à usage limité d’engrais chimiques” ( “ Study on the implementation of a transition from the current agricultural model to a model without plant protection products and with limited use of chemical fertilisers” ) established with the UCLouvain by the Walloon Minister of the Environment, Ecological Transition, Spatial Planning, Mobility and Transport and Animal Welfare.
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Results found in the profil :
- Research director
Results found in the presentation :
- Philippe Baret holds a MSc in agricultural sciences and a PhD in quantitative genetics. A professor at UCLouvain since 1997, his teachings focus on systems analysis, genetics and agroecology. He supervises the Sytra research team with a focus on the characterization of agricultural and food systems, the development of agroecology and the processes of innovation and transition. He is a member of various organizations boards and research groups.
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Results found in the profil :
- Research assistant
Results found in the presentation :
- Clémentine holds a MSc in agricultural sciences from AgroParisTech. Her research focuses on the dynamics of ecological transition, with an original approach mixing agronomy and sociology. Her work considers scales from the farm level to the regional and european level.
Results found in current research projects :
- Sociological research on farmers seeds and varieties choices in small-scale market gardening systems.. …
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Results found in the abstract :
- Anton Riera's research focuses on the diversity of agricultural systems and possible transition pathways.
Results found in the profil :
- Research assistant
Results found in the presentation :
- Anton holds a MSc in agricultural sciences ( UCLouvain ) as well as in Environmental Sustainability ( University of Edinburgh ). As part of Sytra, his work ranges over the three research areas of the team: the global analysis of food and agricultural systems, a consideration of the diversity within those systems and discussions around transition pathways.
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Results found in the main url :
Results found in the abstract :
- Carry out a word search with precise results on the Sytra website ; Transition of food systems
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Results found in the abstract :
- Our latest newsletter is out! Published quarterly, it summarises the main publications and provides information on new research and the dynamics of our research team.
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Publication of June 5th 2025Report
Co-creation of sustainable futures with the Belgian cereal sector – Futures4Food
Results found in the abstract :
- A research project with the actors of the cereal sector.
Results found in the presentation :
- Funded by the Belgian Scientific Policy ( Belspo ), an applied research project to co-design scenarios for the futures of the cereal sector in Belgium
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Results found in the presentation :
- In Europe, cattle production is confronted with major challenges across all dimensions of sustainability, urging the need to promote environmentally friendly but also economically viable livestock systems. In addition, animal protein consumption greatly exceeds the dietary guidelines in most European countries. The protein transition, defined as the rebalancing between animal and alternative proteins in diets, is presented as a solution to mitigate the harmful effects of cattle production on the environment, but also as an opportunity to induce healthier diets. Yet, the implications of such a transition on current livestock farmers are still unclear. In this article, we investigate different factors associated with a protein transition ( e.g. reduction of herd size, increased concentrate autonomy and increased share of pastures ) and assess their implications for the economic per for mance of dairy and beef farmers in Wallonia, Belgium. In the dairy sector, we find that a reduction in herd size, a higher share of pastures and an increased concentrate autonomy are correlated with lower operating costs, resulting in higher margins. There for e, a switch to more extensive grazing systems that rely on on-farm fodder production can entail economic benefits for farmers. In the beef sector, on the other hand, farm characteristics are uncorrelated with most economic indicators, but highly associated with subsidies. This suggests that changes in this sector will rather be induced by policy choices than by economic parameters.
Results found in approaches and methods :
- Economic performance, Environmental footprint, …
Results found in the publication type :
- Research article, …
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Publication of April 16th 2024Poster
Can we achieve the protein transition without tackling the livestock transition?
Results found in the abstract :
- The protein transition emphasizes dietary shifts from animal to alternative proteins but often neglects the need for a trans for mative livestock transition.
Results found in the presentation :
- The poster highlights that the protein transition, which focuses on shifting diets from animal to alternative proteins, often overlooks the production side, specifically the need for a parallel livestock transition. Key drivers include environmental sustainability, health concerns, and animal welfare. The concept of a livestock transition remains underdefined, raising questions about whether the goals of the protein transition can be achieved without trans for ming livestock production. Different narratives shape the discourse, and key industry players are involved in both traditional and alternative protein markets. Ongoing research aims to quantify the impacts of pursuing both transitions together. Poster_LEAP_2024_Duluins080424
Results found in the publication context :
- This poster was presented at the LEAP conference in Oxford in April 2024.
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Results found in the abstract :
- Bioingénieure environnementaliste de formation ( UCLouvain ), Raïssa a rejoint l’équipe Sytra en septembre 2022.
Results found in the presentation :
- Raïssa Montois est bioingénieure environnementaliste de formation, spécialisée en aménagement du territoire ( UCLouvain ). Elle a rejoint l’équipe Sytra en septembre 2022. Elle contribue aux études prospectives et stratégiques sur la transition écologique des systèmes agro-alimentaires. Son approche systémique combine territoire et filières.
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Event of November 20th 2024Workshop
Webinar - Co-constructing the transformation of AECM support schemes in Wallonia and the Hauts-de-France
Results found in the presentation :
- A webinar & participatory workshop was delivered by our team as part of the EU Horizon Enfasys project, introduced by two presentations aimed at comparing the issues of adoption and environmental effectiveness of AES across two territories: Context and issues surrounding the CAP – MAEC system in Wallonia ( Hubert Bedoret – Natagriwal ) Value network, Barriers and Dynamics observed in the Hauts-de-France ( Enfasys Case Study – Sytra ) These two presentations initiated a discussion with representatives of the two territories on the transformation levers and strategic interventions that could be envisaged at different levels to strengthen the adoption and environmental effectiveness of AECM : Strengthen human resources to support farmers towards the adoption of AECM Promote multi-disciplinary advisory structures, particularly in terms of agri-environmental skills Develop collective AECM programs Promote the benefits and services provided by the implementation of AECM to farmers. Experiment and develop results-oriented AECM, giving access to progressive levels of remuneration based on measured agri-environmental performance. Reduce the dissuasive power of controls on the adoption of AES. Work on the flexibility of specifications, while ensuring that the environmental quality criteria of the measures are maintained. Respect the right to make mistakes and provide farmers with greater support in administrative procedures. Increase the overall level of funding and support dedicated to AECM practitioners Rethink the allocation of CAP budgets with the environmental ambitions of national strategic plans ( SNP ).
Results found in "Guest Speaker : Hubert Bedoret" :
- Director of the non-profit organization Natagriwal, whose mission is to inform, advise and support farmers and other local stakeholders on the agri-environmental and climate program, the Natura 2000 ecological network and the planting of native trees and hedges.
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Results found in the abstract :
- Diana's PhD research focuses on the Agri-environmental schemes governance, under the CAP Policy framework
Results found in the presentation :
- Diana Borniotto holds a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics from University of Milan. She has worked during the past years in both the private and public sector focussing on social and environmental externalities of agricultural value chain. Her PhD research now focusses on Agri-environmental schemes governance, under the CAP policy framework. Due to her past experience, she also contributes to Sytra reflections on evaluation, true cost of food and policy briefs
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Results found in the profil :
- Research assistant
Results found in the presentation :
- Trained as a bioengineer in agronomic sciences, specialised in sustainability engineering, Antoine joined the team in February 2024 to contribute to various projects concerning the transition to sustainable agricultural and food systems and paths for reducing the use of inputs on a territorial scale.
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Publication of September 24th 2024Presentation
European day of organic - Presentation at BioForum Vlaanderen event
Results found in the main url :
Results found in the abstract :
- Presentation at the event organized by Bioforum Vlaanderen on Sept, 23, 2024
Results found in the presentation :
- A presentation on what is the impact of the increasing share of organic farming on the overall sustainability of the Belgian food system? Click below to download the presentation.
Results found in files names :
- https://sytra.be/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/240923-bioforum-vlaanderen-1.pdf, . …
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Publication of November 25th 2024Report
Identification of barriers to the use of intercropping in 12 European case studies
Results found in the publication context :
- Report written in the context of the IntercropVALUES project ( Developing Intercropping for agrifood Value chains and Ecosystem Services delivery in Europe and Southern countries – HORIZON-CL6-2022-BIODIV-01 ).
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Event of January 10th 2023Conference
LEAP Conference (Oxford) : Sytra's presentations on the bovine sector
Results found in the abstract :
- On 25 January 2023, Sytra will give two presentations at the LEAP conference : ( 1 ) Economic implications of a protein transition: evidence from Walloon beef and dairy farms; ( 2 ) Accounting for diversity while assessing sustainability: insisghts from the Walloon bovine sectors.
Results found in the presentation :
- Livestock productions face significant challenges and a transition towards more sustainable livestock systems is necessary. At the LEAP conference, through an analysis of the Walloon ( Southern Belgium ) bovine sectors, we explore the following elements : Why it is important to account for diversity when assessing the sustainability of farming systems. An in-depth analysis of the economic per for mances of bovine farms, especially in a protein transition context. These findings are based on recent publications ( one projet report and one peer-reviewed article ). The conference presentations will be updated after the conference.
Results found in approaches and methods :
- Economic performance, …
Results found in the event location :
- University of Oxford - St Catherine's College
Results found in the event address :
- Manor Road. Oxford. England. OX1 3UJ. Royaume-Uni.
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Results found in the abstract :
- What are the major issues currently facing agriculture and our food supply? The “Farming in transition for more sustainable food systems” lecture series will take stock of these issues.
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Results found in the abstract :
- Research and projects dedicated to analysing food systems and transition pathways.
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Event of March 20th 2019Conference
Towards a low-pesticides agriculture in Wallonia? Presentation of a diversity of scenarios
Results found in the presentation :
- This conference will include a presentation of the studies carried out by UCLouvain on the cereals, potatoes, milk and beef sectors. An inventory of production methods, and two to three prospective scenarios will be presented. This research was funded by the Walloon Minister of the Environment.
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Results found in the abstract :
- Kevin Morel now is a research fellow at INRAE.
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Results found in the profil :
- Research assistant
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Results found in the profil :
- Research assistant
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Publication of June 25th 2024Communication
The paradoxes of the protein transition maintain existing animal production and consumption systems
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Publication of October 12th 2021Presentation
Pesticide reduction: Lessons learnt from the French and European experiences
Results found in the abstract :
- Reducing the use of pesticides has been on the agenda for decades. What can we learn from French and European pesticide reduction policies and implementation?