<p>The new Interreg project "Smart Carbon Farming" is up and running! The project focuses on promoting carbon farming as a sustainable solution for both farmers and the environment. On February 12 and 13, the different partners met for the first time in Lille. That kick-off meeting was all about getting to know each other and everyone's organization. Then the mission of the project and the vision on carbon farming were determined. On the second day, work packages were explored and activity plans were made for the coming year.</p><h2>What is carbon farming?</h2><p>Carbon farming is a farming principle in which farmers sequester carbon in the soil to remove Co2 emissions from the air. This approach, which allows plants to grow by using natural carbon sources, will reduce fertilizer use, improve soil health and have a positive effect on the climate.</p><p>However, despite its promising benefits, carbon farming currently has limited adoption by farmers. Lack of support, policy and understanding of new business models are barriers to wider adoption.</p><h2>Helping farmers through innovation</h2><p>The main goal of the Interreg Smart Carbon Farming project is to facilitate the transition to carbon farming for farmers. This will be achieved through the development and implementation of innovative measurement tools, including ground, drone and satellite data, as well as advanced sensors.</p><p>Fifteen pilot projects will be implemented on various farms in partner countries, training 50 farmers in the practical application of these principles. In addition, attention is being paid to analyzing policy resources at regional, national and European levels to encourage the adoption of carbon farming.</p><h2>Development of action plan</h2><p>Oost NL takes a leading role in developing an action plan to support regional and transnational policies. In addition, Oost NL has a connecting role. Four innovative regional companies, Farm On, Spatialise, Bioscope &amp; Soil Valley Royal Eijkelkamp are connected as associated partners.</p><p>Thanks to this project, Oost NL contributes to the transition to a more sustainable and future-proof agricultural sector. Joining forces at regional, national and international level, creates a solid basis for an innovative and sustainable future in agriculture.</p><h2>Strong network</h2><p>Oost NL is one of the partners. In total, there are 11 participating project partners from 5 different countries (the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France and Ireland) and 4 affiliated East Netherlands companies. The Smart Carbon Farming project is implemented within the framework of the Interreg North-West Europe program. Provinces Gelderland and Overijssel are closely involved and act as co-financers.</p><p>More information? Please contact Maaike Büchner (31 6 28 90 91 81) or Suradj Hiralal (31 6 28 35 88 30).<br><o:p></o:p></p>

Partners Smart Carbon Farming working together in Lille