Today, we take a moment to reflect on Data4Food2030’s recent journey to the Food 2030 Conference in Brussels, where stakeholders convened to address pressing challenges and opportunities in the realm of food systems.
Joined by esteemed partners including Wageningen University & Research, Foodscale Hub, INRAE, ILVO, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, and EFFoST, Data4Food2030 ventured into this dynamic space with a shared purpose: to contribute to the dialogue and action surrounding transformative food system innovation.
The conference, hosted under the auspices of the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union and in collaboration with visit.brussels, provided a platform for meaningful exchange and collaboration among EU-funded projects and food system stakeholders, with some of the key objectives outlined during the conference being the coordination of cross-project collaboration and the facilitation of a dialogue with policymakers on removing barriers to innovation.
Throughout our time in Brussels, Data4Food2030 engaged in constructive discussions, sought out opportunities for collaboration, and connected with a diverse array of stakeholders. Our focus remained on promoting collaborative approaches to innovation in agriculture and food systems, with an emphasis on sustainability and resilience. By participating in cross-project collaboration sessions and engaging with policymakers, our team gained valuable insights and contributed to ongoing efforts to address key challenges facing the food system.
During the Food 2030 Conference, we had the opportunity to showcase the work done so far by the project partners and the progress marked throughout the 1,5 years of its implementation. Let’s have an overview!
As the conference’s main goal was to open the way for food system innovations and enhance collaboration towards that goal, we shared how we address challenges such as data security, equitable access to data-driven innovations, data sovereignty and privacy in Data4Food2030. Keeping in mind that measuring the impact of data-driven and digital innovations is crucial for our project, our methodology is not just about assessment; it’s about creating a dialogue, a shared vision for the future of food.
In addition, Data4Food2030 team members discussed with food system stakeholders, experts and researchers representing food projects about how we encounter critical dilemmas that challenge our assumptions and push us to think deeper. The dilemmas posed are:
These dilemmas are not mere academic exercises; they are real-world challenges that require our collective insight, creativity, and action. How can we leverage the power of data to create food systems that are not only efficient and innovative but also equitable and respectful of our heritage and natural resources? This is a question we aim to answer, as we continue our efforts towards discovering the value of Data Economy in European food systems.
As we look back on our participation in the Food 2030 Conference, we are reminded of the importance of collective action and collaboration in addressing complex challenges. Moving forward, Data4Food2030 remains committed to its mission of driving positive change within the food system through collaboration, innovation, and advocacy.
Together, let us continue to work towards a future where our food systems are sustainable, resilient, and equitable for all. The journey ahead may be challenging, but with determination and collaboration, we can make meaningful progress towards our shared goals.
Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
