Yesterday, GFarm for LIFE actively participated in the prominent AgriFood Forum 2024, underscoring its commitment to developing robust carbon farming practices within Lithuania’s agricultural sector. During the forum, themed “FIELD OF THE FUTURE: Rethinking AgriFood for Resilience and Sustainability,” GFarm showcased its systematic approach to greenhouse gas (GHG) management in agriculture, forestry, and other land use (AFOLU) sectors. The project’s insights were pivotal in panel discussions focused on redefining carbon as a valuable asset in creating sustainable and resilient agrifood systems.
Strategic Policy Alignment and Regulatory Framework
GFarm for LIFE stressed the necessity for clear, stable regulatory frameworks at both national and European Union levels. Panelist Remigijus Lapinskas, Director of the Green Policy Institute, emphasised the urgent need for transparent national registers, a European carbon removal registry, and stringent auditing mechanisms to verify and reward genuine carbon sequestration efforts accurately. Aligning closely with ongoing EU directives, GFarm’s methodology presents a compelling model, effectively bridging policy and practice to meet Lithuania’s climate objectives.
Technological Innovations and Data-Driven Solutions
Representatives at the forum highlighted the critical role of technology and accurate data collection for successful carbon farming. Konstantin Haralampiev, Co-founder of Agrovar CC and a leading figure in the company’s carbon program, shared experiences from his enterprise, Agrovar CC, illustrating how data-driven insights help farmers transition towards regenerative practices. He emphasised that reliable data—such as soil analysis, climate information, and crop rotations—is crucial for making informed decisions, optimising soil health, and enhancing carbon sequestration. This emphasis aligns with GFarm’s objective to establish comprehensive databases and technological infrastructure essential for credible GHG monitoring and effective decision-making.
Building Trust and Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration
Discussions also revealed the importance of trust and collaboration across the agrifood value chain. Grigoris Chatzikostas, Partner at reframe.food, emphasized the significance of inclusive training and clear communication to both farmers and consumers. GFarm for LIFE echoed this sentiment, recognizing the importance of empowering stakeholders through education, transparent practices, and incentives. Building trust and engagement among farmers, policymakers, and the private sector remains central to GFarm’s strategy, ultimately driving effective and sustainable carbon management practices.
The AgriFood Forum 2024 served as an influential platform for GFarm for LIFE to present its holistic approach to carbon farming and GHG management. By advocating for robust regulatory frameworks, advanced technological solutions, and enhanced stakeholder collaboration, the project has reaffirmed its role in shaping sustainable agricultural practices. As Lithuania advances towards its climate goals, GFarm for LIFE continues to lead by example, providing essential tools and insights necessary for sustainable, resilient, and productive agrifood systems across Europe.
Watch the full discussion video
