Financing the transition: Reflections from Brussels on the future of farming

On 8 May 2025, key voices across Europe gathered at the Conference on the Vision for Agriculture and Food in Brussels. Among them, Tristano Bacchetti De Gregoris, Head of Research & Innovation at SAE Innova and Coordinator of the Horizon Europe project CREDIBLE, participated in the breakout session focused on: "Leveraging opportunities for farmers from bioeconomy, nature and climate protection."

His intervention began with an historical metaphor: just as past societies once justified destructive actions under the guise of moral good, today many farmers are locked in input-intensive systems with little room for alternatives. "They are caught," he said, "in a cycle where applying broad-spectrum pesticides becomes a necessity, not a choice."

Yet, an alternative exists. It's not magic—it's hard work, investment, and knowledge. Organic and regenerative approaches rely on integrated practices, careful planning, and a deep understanding of ecosystems.

This is where carbon and nature credits come in—not as ends in themselves, but as tools to finance change. These mechanisms reward additional efforts, helping farmers transition towards practices that deliver environmental, climate, and social benefits.

"We must be honest about who these systems are for. Perhaps we should start with the innovators—the farmers already willing to take the risk."

Finally, he urged agri-food companies to engage now: "Public funding will play a leading role in the early stages, but private investment must follow. Now is the time to experiment, to learn, and to help shape the systems of tomorrow."

▶️ You can watch his full intervention below: