REENFORCE Kicked-Off in Athens!

On October 3rd, 2025, representatives from Greece, Belgium, and Portugal convened at the Agricultural University of Athens (AUA) to mark the official launch of REENFORCE, a new Horizon Europe project coordinated by AUA. The kick-off meeting set the stage for a dynamic collaboration that aims to strengthen research excellence and foster innovation in sustainable crop protection across Europe.

A Vision for Sustainable and Resilient Agriculture

REENFORCE (Research Excellence for Sustainable Crop Protection) brings together leading institutions from academia, industry, and competence centers with a shared goal: to advance sustainable, science-based solutions that protect crops while safeguarding ecosystems.

The project is built around three key pillars:

• Advancing bio-based solutions to reduce reliance on synthetic pesticides;

• Deepening understanding of ecotoxicology, ensuring that new plant protection methods are safe for the environment;

• Promoting smart spraying technologies that enable precision agriculture and optimize resource use.

By integrating expertise across disciplines and sectors, REENFORCE aims to accelerate the transition toward environmentally responsible crop management practices that align with the European Green Deal and the Farm to Fork Strategy.

Collaboration and Capacity Building at the Core

Beyond scientific objectives, REENFORCE places strong emphasis on capacity building and knowledge exchange. Through secondments, training activities, and collaborative research, the project will enhance the skills and mobility of researchers, strengthen institutional links, and nurture a new generation of professionals equipped to lead Europe’s green and digital transformation.

As part of the European Research Area (ERA) Policy Agenda, REENFORCE contributes to a more cohesive and resilient research ecosystem—one that supports innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness in the European agri-food sector.

A Successful Start in Athens

The kick-off meeting at the Agricultural University of Athens provided a valuable platform for partners to outline the project’s strategic direction, align on priorities, and discuss upcoming activities. Participants highlighted the importance of cross-border collaboration and expressed strong commitment to achieving REENFORCE’s vision.