How can Germany expand organic farmland by 2030? This pivotal question lies at the heart of the Science-Policy Interface (SPI) on Organic Farming, that brings together key stakeholders from various sectors, like farmers, advisors, researchers, policymakers, and other actors along the agricultural value chain. The goal is to identify solutions that can drive the transition to organic farming and increase organic farmland in Germany.

In the first SPI workshop, participants discussed the main barriers to the expansion of organic agriculture. Key obstacles identified included insufficient market demand, a lack of processing infrastructure, a shortage of advisors and technical support, and fluctuating profits for farmers. Overcoming these barriers is seen as crucial for accelerating the shift toward organic farming and meeting national sustainability targets.

A promising solution emerged during discussions around public procurement. By increasing the demand for organic products within public institutions, such as schools, hospitals, and government canteens, policymakers can create a stable and predictable market that encourages more farmers to adopt organic practices. There was a strong consensus among stakeholders that public procurement can serve as a powerful tool to stimulate the growth of organic agriculture in Germany.

To explore this solution further, the second SPI workshop focused on practical strategies for integrating organic products into public procurement. Stakeholders from the Frankfurt region discussed existing networks and structures that could support the widespread adoption of organic products in public institutions. Strengthening these regional connections, leveraging established initiatives, and fostering collaboration across sectors were identified as critical steps toward making organic products the standard choice in public procurement.

This SPI continues to support the development of collaborative strategies and is committed to overcoming the challenges that limit the growth of organic farming. By emphasizing the role of public procurement in driving demand, the SPI is contributing to the creation of a more sustainable future in Germany.

In addition to the workshops, the SPI is supported by a survey on potential policy measures to enhance organic public procurement. This survey will help gather insights from stakeholders and inform policy decisions aimed at scaling up organic farming and promoting sustainability across the food system.