CA25180 - Biostimulants for Resilient Agriculture (BIORAG)

Reducing the reliance on chemical fertilisers in agriculture is essential to safeguard biodiversity, promote soil health, and minimise the economic and health risks associated with overuse. The European Green Deal targets a 20% reduction in chemical fertiliser use by 2030, requiring improved nutrient use efficiency. Microbial and non-microbial biostimulants offer a promising solution, sustaining crop yield under lower fertiliser input and enhancing resilience to climate change, while restoring soil fertility in line with the EU Soil Health Directive. However, biostimulant research is currently fragmented, and product reliability is variable. BIORAG will strengthen European expertise in biostimulant research by fostering collaboration between academic groups, companies, and regulatory bodies. The network will advance functional and mode-of-action studies of biostimulants, standardise and categorise bioassays linked to model species, and systematically transfer validated protocols to representative crops and perennial species, including trees. Young researchers will be trained in cutting-edge approaches including biomarkers, plant mutants, microscopy, molecular genetics, and omics technological approaches for the study of biostimulant function and mode of action. By harmonising research strategies, methodologies, and data management, BIORAG will accelerate biostimulant development, facilitate registration, generate new knowledge beyond the current state-of-the-art. These efforts will support resilient agricultural production systems and contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, while ensuring practical relevance for industry and regulatory uptake.