Support for simple programmes promoting Union organic products OR sustainability of Union agriculture in any third country/ies (Topic 9)

Topic description

Scope:

• The objective is to increase the awareness and recognition of the Union quality scheme on organic production.

Information and promotion programmes on the Union quality scheme on organic production method should be a key priority since this scheme provides consumers with assurances on the sustainability, quality and characteristics of the product and the production process used and the environmental benefits they generate, achieve added value for the products concerned and enhance their market opportunities.

The expected ultimate impact is to increase awareness of the Union quality scheme on organic production and to enhance the competitiveness and consumption of organic products, raise their profile and increase their market share.

• Actions should highlight the sustainability of Union agriculture, stressing its beneficial role for climate action and the environment.

Actions should address how the product(s) promoted and its/their production method(s) contribute to climate change mitigation (e.g. reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and/or increase in carbon removals) and/or adaptation (e.g. climate-resistant crops and crop varieties).

In addition, actions should address at least one of the following:

a) biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of natural resources (e.g. wildlife, landscape, genetic resources);

b) sustainable water management (e.g. water use efficiency, reduction of nutrients or pesticides load);

c) sustainable soil management (e.g. erosion control; nutrient balance; prevention of acidification, salinization, reduction of pesticides);

d) sustainable, carbon-efficient methods of livestock production;

e) reduction of use of antimicrobials;

f) reduction of food loss and food waste;

g) animal welfare commitments that go beyond the mandatory legal requirements.