SoilValues partner, The Association of Balkan Eco-Innovation has established the Regenerative agriculture Alliance of Serbia. The Alliance is established together with their partners, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Novi Sad; an innovative agritech SME, GILab, and the Institute for Development and Innovation from Belgrade. Through the coordinated approach, they will tackle systemic issues across the local regenerative agriculture ecosystem. The goal of the Alliance is to streamline and promote interactions between farmers, agri-businesses, public bodies, policy makers, and other stakeholders; thus, leading to a stronger community of practice to help accelerate development of regenerative agriculture in the country.
The main goal of the Alliance is divided between the 5 working groups: 1. Education, 2. Demo farms, 3. Research, Innovation and Projects, 4. Digital technology and mechanization, 5. Financial and social support. The first activities of the Alliance started in mid 2023, through the organization of workshops and trainings for farmers interested in regenerative practices, preparation and publishing of the educational material, both written (such are „Guidelines for arable production“) and several video materials (training recordings and videos from the farm). Moreover, in March 2023, the Alliance organized the launching event where the Alliance and its activities was presented to the wider audience.
ABE, as a leader for the working groups for Education and Demo farms is busy with the preparation of more educational materials as well as with the development of the network of demo farms across Serbia and organisation of open days on farms. This is also a part of the preparation work for the future Communities of Practice activities within SoilValues project.
The Regenerative Agriculture Alliance of Serbia: Pioneering Sustainable Practices
SoilValues partner, the Association of Balkan Eco-Innovation (ABE), has taken a significant step towards advancing sustainable agriculture in Serbia by establishing the Regenerative Agriculture Alliance of Serbia. This initiative, launched in collaboration with the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Novi Sad, the innovative agritech SME GILab, and the Institute for Development and Innovation, aims to address systemic issues within the local regenerative agriculture ecosystem.
A Unified Effort for Systemic Change
The Regenerative Agriculture Alliance of Serbia represents a coordinated approach to tackling the challenges faced by the agricultural sector. By fostering interactions between farmers, agri-businesses, public bodies, policymakers, and other stakeholders, the Alliance aims to create a robust community of practice. This collaborative effort is designed to accelerate the development of regenerative agriculture, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for Serbian agriculture.
Strategic Focus: Five Working Groups
To achieve its ambitious goals, the Alliance operates through five dedicated working groups:
Education: Developing and disseminating educational materials and training programs to enhance the knowledge and skills of farmers in regenerative practices.
Demo Farms: Establishing a network of demonstration farms to showcase best practices and innovations in regenerative agriculture.
Research, Innovation, and Projects: Conducting cutting-edge research and implementing innovative projects to drive advancements in the field.
Digital Technology and Mechanization: Leveraging digital tools and modern mechanization to improve efficiency and productivity in regenerative farming.
Financial and Social Support: Supporting the creation of special financial assistance and fostering social networks to support farmers transitioning to regenerative practices.
Early Activities and Milestones
The Alliance commenced its activities in mid-2023 with a series of workshops and training sessions aimed at farmers interested in regenerative agriculture. These events were complemented by the publication of educational materials, including the “Guidelines for Arable Production,” and several instructional videos showcasing practical techniques on farms.
In March 2024, the Alliance held a successful launching event, presenting its objectives and initial work to a broader audience. This event marked the beginning of an ongoing effort to engage and support the agricultural community in Serbia.
ABE’s Leadership in Education and Demo Farms
As the leader of the working groups for Education and Demo Farms, ABE is at the forefront of these initiatives. The organization is actively preparing additional educational resources and expanding the network of demo farms across Serbia. These demo farms serve as living laboratories where farmers can observe and learn about regenerative practices firsthand.
ABE is also organizing open days on these farms, providing valuable opportunities for farmers to connect, share experiences, and gain insights into regenerative agriculture. These activities are part of the preparatory work for future Communities of Practice activities within the SoilValues project, which aims also to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among stakeholders.
Conclusion
The Regenerative Agriculture Alliance of Serbia, spearheaded by ABE and its partners, is a transformative initiative that seeks to revolutionize agricultural practices in the country. Through education, innovation, and collaboration, the Alliance is building a sustainable future for Serbian agriculture, ensuring that the land remains fertile and productive for generations to come.
II Bajmok, Open Field Day / 05.06.2024
On Wednesday, June 5th, the Regenerative Agriculture Alliance of Serbia held its initial Demo Day in the village of Bajmok, located in northern Serbia. The event attracted over 100 attendees (farmers, agricultural consultants, researchers, professors, representative of the local authorities, banks and agrifood industry…) all eager to learn about the implementation of regenerative practices designed to enhance land productivity and boost biological diversity over time.
The event was hosted by Mr. Florian Farkaš, an agricultural advisor and a farmer who actively employs regenerative agriculture methods. Mr. Farkaš shared his experiences and insights with fellow farmers, as well as representatives from local government and research institutions. He provided practical demonstrations of techniques such as “cover-cropping,” “trap-cropping,” and “intercropping,” illustrating how these methods contribute to improved soil quality.
Visitors gained valuable knowledge about the daily challenges faced in regenerative agriculture and witnessed firsthand the benefits of these sustainable practices on soil health. This event also served as a preparatory phase for future SoilValues activities and the establishment of a Community of Practice in Serbia.