Events

Crop-MATCHING was presented at the 8th Conference on Local Products and Varieties, an event organised by ELGO DIMITRA focused on biodiversity, local products and their economic value. The conference brought together researchers, policymakers and agri-food stakeholders to exchange knowledge and discuss the role of local and indigenous varieties in building more sustainable and resilient food systems.

As part of the programme, Crop-MATCHING coordinator Professor Mattas from  Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH) was invited by the organising committee to deliver a lecture entitled “Economy, Biodiversity and Local Products”. During his presentation, he introduced the Crop-MATCHING project and highlighted how sustainable cropping practices and local value chains can contribute to strengthening rural economies while supporting biodiversity conservation.

The conference included sessions dedicated to research, policy and business opportunities related to local and indigenous varieties, creating an important space for dialogue among experts and stakeholders from the agri-food sector. Around 80 participants attended the event in person, while additional attendees followed the conference remotely.

During the presentation, Professor Mattas explored the links between biodiversity, innovation and the economic valorisation of local products, while also showcasing the relevance of Crop-MATCHING in promoting sustainable agricultural practices tailored to the needs of small-scale farmers and foresters across Europe.

Participation in this event directly supported Crop-MATCHING dissemination and stakeholder engagement activities. The topics discussed are closely aligned with the project’s objectives of promoting sustainable crops, strengthening local value chains and improving farmer profitability through the uptake of innovative and biodiversity-friendly farming practices.

The conference also reinforced the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange in advancing more sustainable and resilient agri-food systems across Europe.