Facilitating research uptake by the seed and plant breeding sector for bioeconomy development in the EU

Abstract

Improved, high-quality, and diverse plant varieties are important for food production as well as for non-food renewable raw materials and energy. Plant breeding has a pivotal role in supporting the economic sustainability of Europe's farming communities and the agri-food value chain as providers of plant biomass which is the starting point for the bioeconomy. The transition from basic scientific research to a marketable product requires engagement between public institutes, the private sector, and other actors. In this article, we highlight different possibilities to facilitate research uptake by the private plant breeding sector, including public-private partnerships, multi-stakeholder engagement, and agri-food value chain involvement.