Within the framework of the European FER-PLAY project, ASAJA has developed a range of co-creation activities aimed at promoting alternative, circular fertilisers that support soil health. These initiatives have included workshops and webinars throughout 2023 and 2024, fostering dialogue among farmers, innovation experts, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.
Additionally, we have engaged with decision-making institutions to raise awareness of the importance of the circular economy and the role of alternative fertilisers. This collaborative effort aims to promote sustainable practices that benefit the environment while enhancing efficiency and innovation in the agricultural sector. Close cooperation with these institutions is essential to advancing a more sustainable and responsible future.
ASAJA’s integration into COPA-COGECA has been instrumental in strengthening our position and influence at the European level. This affiliation has enabled us to actively participate in decision-making processes and policy formulation that directly impact the agricultural sector. It has also provided opportunities to collaborate with other organisations, share experiences, and exchange knowledge—key factors in advancing our common goals and fostering a more sustainable and competitive agricultural landscape.
Lessons Learned on Stakeholder Engagement
One of the most effective strategies for encouraging stakeholder participation in the FER-PLAY project has been the implementation of interactive and engaging activities, such as a drone raffle. This approach not only captured participants’ attention but also encouraged their active involvement in organised events.
The drone raffle, in particular, proved to be an effective tool for increasing attendance and generating interest in the co-creation sessions. It enabled ASAJA to gather valuable feedback and insights from farmers and other key stakeholders. Moreover, this strategy fostered a collaborative and engaging environment, where participants felt motivated to share their experiences and knowledge on the use of alternative fertilisers and sustainable farming practices.
In summary, the use of tangible incentives such as the drone raffle played a vital role in strengthening stakeholder participation and engagement, contributing to the overall success of the project.
Key Insights from Co-Creation Activities
- Knowledge Exchange
a. Active participation from farmers, technicians, and experts facilitated experience-sharing on the benefits and challenges of alternative fertilisers.
b. Training and outreach were identified as essential to accelerating the transition towards more sustainable solutions. - Strengthening Public-Private Collaboration
a. All events highlighted the need for close cooperation between policymakers, innovation entities, and producers to create a supportive regulatory and economic environment.
b. European policies (such as the CAP and Farm to Fork Strategy) were recognised as key levers for scaling up circular fertiliser adoption. - Need for Field Validation
a. Despite their theoretical advantages, the adoption of alternative fertilisers by farmers requires concrete data from trials, productivity outcomes, and cost-benefit analyses.
b. A network of demonstration sites and real-scale studies was identified as crucial for building trust within the sector. - Vision for the Future
a. Discussions underscored that sustainability and circularity are irreversible trends in agriculture.
b. There is growing demand for technical advice and a strong interest in innovation, particularly among young farmers.
Conclusions
ASAJA’s active involvement in the FER-PLAY project has been instrumental in driving discussions on sustainable agricultural fertilisation and encouraging innovative practices that align with the sector’s real needs. The events organised in 2023 and 2024 demonstrated an increasing interest in circular models and soil health, as well as the importance of effective stakeholder engagement strategies.
The use of tangible incentives, such as the drone raffle, has proven to be an effective tool for increasing attendance and engagement in co-creation sessions. This approach has not only helped gather valuable sector insights but also strengthened collaboration between farmers, technicians, and innovators.
With the support of the European Union (Horizon 2020) and in collaboration with other organisations, ASAJA will continue to promote cooperation and knowledge-sharing to ensure the widespread adoption of alternative fertilisers, making them a fundamental part of the future of agriculture.
