SS4AF actively contributes to shaping regional, national and European innovation policies. Through our participation in strategic initiatives, we strengthen the innovative power and sustainability of the industry.
The European agri-food industry stands at the forefront of an essential transformation—embracing both digital innovation and sustainability. These shifts are vital to maintaining its role as a driver of prosperity and meeting the ambitious goals of the European Green Deal and Farm-to-Fork strategy. Digital integration and smart data use are no longer optional—they are the keys to achieving a truly sustainable food system.
The Green Deal, a transformative initiative by the European Commission, places sustainable food systems at its core through the farm-to-fork strategy. This strategy's success relies on implementing digital solutions and harnessing smart data usage across the agri-food value chain and the broader food system. In simpler terms, the Green Deal and Digitalization are intertwined, demanding the agri–food sector in Europe to simultaneously embrace digitalization as key enabling technology for eco-friendly practices.
Industry 5.0 envisions an industry beyond efficiency and productivity, emphasizing societal well-being, sustainable technologies, and planetary respect. This concept builds upon 'Industry 4.0' by prioritizing research and innovation, steering European industry towards sustainability and resilience. Industry 5.0 empowers workers, addresses skill needs, boosts industry competitiveness, and attracts top talent. Its circular models and resource-efficient technologies align with environmental preservation. Moreover, it enhances industry resilience against disruptions like the COVID-19 crisis.