Leveraging European Technology Platforms to boost Europe’s public and private R&I outcomes

EATiP is proud to join seventeen other European Technology Platforms (ETPs) in calling on the European Commission to reaffirm its support for the strategic role that ETPs play in the next European Framework Programme (FP10).

Through development of our Strategic Research & Innovation Agenda platforms such as EATiP have contributed to the definition of crucial R&I priorities, including those under the EU and national Framework Programmes. One of the main benefits of multi-actor Technology & Innovation Platforms is our ability to provide wide, objective, coherent and strategic advice that replaces reliance on multiple, often competing and contradictory, points of view.

We firmly believe that the role of ETPs remains vital: ensuring that EU research has a high impact and that results are leveraged for the benefit of both industry and society as a whole. This compliments the high level recommendations coming from key reports such as the Draghi Report and Align, Act, Accelerate – the report of the Expert Committee on Research, Technology & Innovation to boost European Competitiveness. This key role of ETPs was further highlighted in the EU Council conclusions (May 2024) on “A competitive European industry driving our green, digital and resilient future”, the EU’s R&I does not sufficiently translate into marketable products or services. ETPs play an important role in helping bridge this gap, given our strong networks of experts and sectoral expertise.

As the new European Commission continues to take shape, EATiP and other bio-economy allies will continue in our making representations on priorities for research and innovation actions – alongside the need for the concerns of industry being prioritised.

We’re growing again!

EATiP is delighted to announce that EBCD – the European Bureau for Conservation Development has joined our Platform as a member organisation.  EBCD is an international environmental NGO that promotes the sustainable use and conservation of marine resources.

Established in Brussels in 1989, EBCD fosters dialogue and cooperation on ocean governance among all stakeholders, and works together with EU and UN institutions to advance progress on sustainable development.

EBCD has a long history in engaging on sustainable fisheries & aquaculture at European and global level, tracking and informing policy developments through expert-led scientific advice and full stakeholder participation. Embracing its mission of promoting the sustainable use of natural renewable resources, EBCD was involved at the establishment of EATIP in 2007  – bringing in IUCN as an advisory body –  and it has carried out several projects jointly with  IUCN on aquaculture.  

On becoming part of our Platform, EBCD is looking forward to contributing to the sustainable development of the aquaculture sector and in particular to supporting the achievement of SDG14 Life Below Water and SDG 2 Zero Hunger.

One of the key strengths of the European Technology Platforms is their multi-stakeholder approach, joining industry members with researchers, academics and NGO organisations.  Taking a fact and science based policy approach to sustainable development is more important than ever – and such joint working demonstrates the trust and credibility that is to be found in the work of the ETPs, and the importance attached to them by the European Commission and other key stakeholders.

EBCD also provides the Secretariat to the European Parliament Intergroup on “Climate Change, Biodiversity and Sustainable Development” with a specific Working Group on Fisheries and Aquaculture as well the Secretariat to the Market Advisory Council of DG MARE and the Secretariat  to the IUCN Fisheries Expert Group.

EATiP and other food sector Technology Platforms call for a more ambitious budget for Horizon Europe

As part of providing the right framework for an economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic European Heads of State and Governments agreed earlier this week on the EU budget for 2021-2027. Whilst the Council decision provides a clear direction for a rapid decision later this autumn, the reduction in funds allocated to the next Research Program “Horizon Europe” is of concern. Investment in Research and Innovation (R&I) is fundamental to improve food security and the sustainability of EU food systems and ensure development in line with the Green Deal and Farm2Form strategy objectives.

Horizon Europe – the EU Research & Innovation Programme 2021 – 2027

Together with the European Technology Platforms FABRE, Plants for the Future, TP Organics, the National Food Technology Platforms and the Animal Task Force, EATiP addresses an urgent message to the European Council, European Parliament and European Commission on the importance of R&I to support robust and resilient food, agricultural and aquaculture systems.

Read the common statement below: