Thematic Workshops
Agroecology is an agricultural production system that draws on ecological, social and economic principles to develop more sustainable and environmentally-friendly agronomic practices. In the context of geographical indications (GIs), agroecology can contribute to the preservation of natural resources and local biodiversity, which is particularly important for production that cannot be relocated.
Agroecological practices include soil fertility management methods, crop diversification, biological pest control, water and energy conservation, and the promotion of biodiversity. These practices can be adapted to the specific geographical features of the different territories covered by GIs.
Greater integration of agro-ecology into the agronomic practices of GIs would help to preserve local ecosystems, improve the resilience of production systems and promote product quality. This agro-ecological transition would require investment in training, research and development and technical support for producers.
This workshop will provide an opportunity to explore agro-ecological practices in the specific context of geographical indications (GIs). Participants will examine how these sustainable practices, including conversion to organic farming, can help maintain the quality and authenticity of GIs while adapting to various environmental pressures. Participants will also be able to discuss the challenges and obstacles linked to the adoption and generalisation of these practices, such as the training of farmers, the updating of know-how, access to appropriate technologies and the need to maintain local, fair and consistent practices in the context of GIs.
12th October 2023
Ecole Supérieure des Agricultures, Angers
Room 3523
Facilitator: Dominique Barjolle (UNIL)
Introduction by François Casabianca (ODT)
1. Filippo Arfini, University of Parma, Italy
“Economic practices and production specifications: formal or informal
approaches?
2. Christine Larsonneur, IGP Farine de Blé Noir, Bretagne, France
Association Blé Noir Tradition Bretagne
3. Laura Boissinot, Comité Départemental de Développement Maraîcher, France
Transition and sustainability of vegetable production systems among Nantes market gardeners
Conclussion by Luca Piccin
Producer groups (in France: Organismes de défense et de gestion or ODG) are forums for consultation on the content of specifications. Agroecology can be integrated into the supply chain logic of producer groups, whether it is expressed in the content of the product specification itself or in a complementary certification to that of the GI.
Integrating agro-ecology into the supply chain logic of GDOs and producer groups requires coordination between the various players in the supply chain (producers, processors, distributors, consumers), as well as a two-way relationship with customers on the issues involved in the agro-ecological transition: from producers to consumers to promote commitments, and from consumers to producers to encourage change.
This workshop will enable participants to discuss the challenges of integrating agri-ecological standards and requirements at all stages of the supply chain, and to reflect on the circular economy. Participants will be able to share their experiences and best practices to discuss how to integrate these standards into their practices throughout the supply chain and/or their specifications while maintaining product authenticity.
12th October 2023
Ecole Supérieure des Agricultures, Angers
Room 3525
Facilitator: Isabella Maglietti Smith (Origin for Sustainability)
Introduction by Valérie Pieprzownik (FAO)
1. Philippe Jeanneaux (Vetagro Sup, France) & Duncan Hilchey (Journal of Agriculture Food Systems and Community Development, United States)
“Improving Socioeconomic and Environmental Circularity in PGIs via Training
for Agrifood Industry Cluster Facilitators”
2. Faustine Ruggieri, Groupe ESA, France
“Collective action for agro-ecological transition in vineyards under
Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée in the Loire Valley winegrowing area.’”
3. Kamar Habli (Origin for Sustainability, Suisse)
Circular Economy and Geographical Indications: A qualitative analysis of mountain products value chains
Conclussion by Francesca Alampi (AREPO)
The agro-ecological transition of sectors under geographical indication entails adaptation costs that need to be taken into account as part of an overall drive by local players. Consumption is an essential lever for promoting the agro-ecological transition. Mass catering and short distribution channels can contribute to the consumption and development of local, quality products derived from agro-ecological practices.
Innovative agri-food processing practices can also contribute to the agri-environmental transition by using more environmentally-friendly processing techniques and making the most of local and seasonal raw materials. It is important to raise consumer awareness of the importance of product quality and origin, seasonality and the impact of consumption on the environment and on the local dynamics of agri-food chains.
This workshop will examine the role of collective catering and local consumption in the development and sustainability of GIs. Participants will be able to discuss the importance of territory and markets, including local markets, for GIs, and explore initiatives that promote the consumption of products derived from agro-ecological practices. Discussions will also focus on initiatives to raise public awareness of local consumption and GIs, and on specific measures that players in the sector can take to promote more sustainable and local consumption.
Moderators: Olivier Beucherie (Beucherie Conseil, France), Diana Rotari (Label Origin Taste, Moldova)
12th October 2023
Ecole Supérieure des Agricultures, Angers
Room 2525
Facilitator: Tamara Zivadinovic (Mena group)
Introduction by Diana Rotari (Origin Label)
1. Diana Rotari (Label, Origin, Taste, Moldova)
“GI and agroecology: a perspective from a developing country
(Republic of Moldova)”
2. Ivan Dufeu (Université d’Angers, France)
““Agroecology certification: what specifications? What guarantees? An overview from three study countries.”
3. Cédric Briand (Producteurs de Gwell APPG, France)
.Association des Paysans Producteurs de Gwell APPG, France)
“Gwell PDO project: heading for agro-ecological excellence”
Conclussion by Olivier Beucherie (Olivier Beucherie Conseil)