CORENET IN FOCUS AT THE MONTHLY EUFRAS COFFEE BREAK
A networking event where COREnet highlighted challenges, progress, and its vision for an EU-Wide Advisory Network
News by Christian Jochum (University College for Agricultural and Environmental Education)
Thanks to the cooperation with the EUFRAS, on 15 January 2025, the COREnet project was the focus of the monthly EUFRAS Coffee Break meeting, an online event that provides a platform for experts from agriculture and agricultural extension to discuss current developments and experiences in various projects. Christian Jochum from the University College of Agrarian and Environmental Pedagogy and Patrick Pasgang from Boerenbond Projects VZW from Belgium presented their valuable insights and progress in the field of short food supply chains (SFSC). The event attracted a very good audience, more that 150 people registered (among advisors, project managers and managers), from all the 27 EU member states.
Challenges are highlighted
After a general introduction to the project, Christian Jochum pointed out several challenges of SFSC. These include the legal framework, complex trading systems and the need to make these models economically viable for farmers. Another problem is the lack of stakeholders and representative organisations supporting SFSCs at EU, national and regional level.
Progress is explained
Christian Jochum explained how the COREnet project aims to overcome these challenges. A comprehensive inventory will help to better understand the role of SFSCs in the various EU member states. Another key objective of the project is to establish an advisory network of national contact points that will serve as interfaces for increased cooperation. In addition, ‘lighthouse projects’ and European roadshows will be organised so that proven projects can be viewed on site.
Highlights of COREnet
Another highlight of the project is the development of an interactive database containing a list of advisors from all 27 EU countries. This database will strengthen the advisory landscape and highlight successful ‘golden cases’ of SFSC advisory services. In addition, a comprehensive SFSC Advisory Guide will be developed to help advisors understand the complexity of SFSCs and improve their advisory services.
Networking and knowledge sharing as the key to success
Christian Jochum emphasised the importance of networking and the exchange of advisory methods and information within the SFSC network. In particular, the project promotes the exchange of best practices between advisors and helps to promote peer-to-peer learning among farmers. The entire SFSC ecosystem is considered, ranging from primary production to food processing and marketing.
The presentation was supported by the use of MentiMeter, which allowed participants to take part in surveys on which countries have the greatest need for SFSCs and which extension practices are considered most effective. These results will be used for the development of the counseling documents.
Long-term vision: An EU-wide network for SFSC counseling
A long-term goal of the COREnet project is to create a European advisory network for SFSC that is fully integrated into the Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS). This network will ensure that SFSCs are supported in the long term and that their impact in Europe remains sustainable and scalable.
The COREnet project thus provides a valuable platform for all those interested in the further development of short food supply chains. The event in January was a further step towards Europe-wide networking and knowledge transfer for a more sustainable and future-proof agriculture.
Photo credits: Leonardo Improta
