AF4EU Parliamentary Session: “Integrating Agroforestry Innovations into EU Policy”
AF4EU Parliamentary Session “Integrating Agroforestry Innovations into EU Policy,” took place on November 11th 2025 at the European Parliament in Brussels.
Hosted by Mr. Nicolás González Casares, Member of the European Parliament, the event brought together policymakers, researchers, and experts to discuss how agroforestry innovations can be more effectively integrated into EU agricultural and environmental policies.
A high-level dialogue on the future of agroforestry policy
The session opened with welcoming remarks from Mr. González Casares, who emphasised the growing relevance of agroforestry in advancing the objectives of the European Green Deal and the EU Climate Adaptation goals.
Elaine Springgay, Agroforestry Officer at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), provided insights into global capacity building and monitoring efforts that support the expansion of agroforestry practices. Following this, Prof. María Rosa Mosquera-Losada, Project Coordinator of AF4EU (University of Santiago de Compostela), explored how knowledge exchange and policy support can empower farmers and strengthen their position within agricultural value chains.
An open discussion allowed participants to share questions and reflections on how EU policy frameworks can better integrate scientific evidence and field innovation to accelerate the adoption of agroforestry systems across Europe.
Strengthening the role of agroforestry in European policy
The session concluded with final remarks from Prof. Mosquera-Losada, who highlighted the importance of continuing collaboration between research institutions, international organisations, and European policymakers.
This parliamentary dialogue marked a significant moment for AF4EU, reinforcing the project’s contribution to EU-level policy discussions on sustainable land management. By connecting science, practice, and policy, the event underlined how agroforestry can enhance climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and rural competitiveness, helping to shape a more sustainable and circular European agricultural sector.
