Working group 4: Strategical approach to knowledge co-creation for new or adapted NCWM

The Medicinal and Aromatic Plant (MAP) sector faces significant challenges from weeds, which need to be managed because of their detrimental effects on the quality and quantity of raw materials derived from these plants, as well as the risk of contamination. This situation raises concerns about the use of pesticides and other harmful residues for weed control. The EU Green Deal, which aims to reduce the use of chemical pesticides by 50% by 2030, is a policy initiative to address the environmental and climate impacts associated with weed management.
There is a significant need for open support and accessible training, information and exchange of experience focused on the development of new technologies and the use of non-chemical tools and methods in the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants. This is a key objective of our COST Action. The real strength of this network lies in its emphasis on an interdisciplinary and multi-stakeholder approach, addressing not only agricultural and technological aspects, but also socio-economic factors.

Objectives

Develop a weed management strategy: This section highlights the need for a sustainable weed management strategy for MAP crops. This strategy should aim to reduce the use of chemical pesticides and encourage the development of alternative, environmentally friendly methods.
Alignment with EU Green Deal targets: In this context, the paragraph stresses the importance of adopting non-chemical alternatives in agriculture to meet the EU Green Deal target of reducing the use of chemical pesticides by 50%. This is not just a local challenge, but a global one that requires widespread adoption of sustainable practices.
Promoting training and information exchange: There is a strong need to provide farmers with easy access to training and information on innovative technologies and non-chemical methods. Facilitating the exchange of knowledge and experience among farmers will enable them to adopt new tools and methods more effectively.
Interdisciplinary and multi-stakeholder approach: The action advocates increased cooperation and knowledge sharing between a wide range of actors along the entire value chain. This approach goes beyond agricultural and technological aspects to include socio-economic factors to ensure a more holistic solution.

Expected outcomes

Wider adoption of non-chemical weed control methods: Farmers will be more likely to adopt alternative and sustainable weed management solutions, such as biological, mechanical and cultural control methods, reducing their reliance on chemical pesticides.
Improved access to training and information for farmers: Farmers will gain access to up-to-date knowledge on innovative agricultural practices and management strategies. They will also be able to share this knowledge through local and national networks, improving overall production efficiency and quality.
Improved compliance with quality standards: Effective weed management will ensure that the quality of medicinal and aromatic plants meets pharmacopoeial standards, particularly in terms of organic contamination and minimisation of toxic residues. This will allow MAPs to be produced in compliance with international regulations.
Supporting innovative research and practices: Research and innovation will not only focus on technological aspects, but will also integrate social, economic and environmental considerations. This will promote sustainable development in all areas of agriculture, to the benefit of both producers and consumers.
Increased collaboration and dissemination of research results: Greater collaboration between stakeholders will lead to more efficient sharing of research results, accelerating the adoption of innovative practices and solutions across the industry.

In summary, the aim of this working group is to highlight the need for sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions to weed management in MAP crops, while promoting education, knowledge exchange and collaboration between stakeholders. Expected outcomes include increased adoption of non-chemical practices, improved product quality and increased innovation across the agricultural sector.