Over the year 2012, far reaching decisions will be made to shape European food systems for the future: European Parliament and Council of Ministers will discuss the Common Agricultural Policy 2014-2020, based upon proposals made by the Commission in October 2011. Challenges to our future food supply such as climate change, increasing scarcity of natural resources and socio-economic shifts in rural areas demand progressive change in policies and farm practice. Organic farming as a knowledge based, innovative system approach to sustainability and quality food production with EU wide certification in place offers opportunities to meeting a broad range of these challenges and the economic strengthening of High Nature Value farms can ensure the enhancement of biodiversity and contribute to the viability of rural societies; both farm systems should be in the focus of the new policies. The 6th European Organic Congress “Smart change - towards a sustainable CAP” addresses the policy change needed to come to a greener, smarter, fairer CAP for the future, improve the availability of sustainably produced food for consumers and to ensure the credibility of certification for sustainable farm systems.

 

Registration is now open and discounted early bird fees are available until the 26th of February 2012. We invite you to save the dates and book your travel now!

 

More information regarding the Congress, travel and accommodation can be found on this website of by contacting the Congress secretariat at congress@ifoam-eu.org.