TRACK III: How can we advance ESG frameworks and investment strategies to restore biodiversity and support a fair, healthy and sustainable agriculture and food system?

Track coordinator Thom Achterbosch, Wageningen University Research  

IIIA: Increasing investment in biodiversity and food systems transformation: a co-creation task for policy-science-industry-finance
Organised by Sabine Descka together with Irina Verweij-Novikova, Wageningen University Research  

This workshop explores how to align policy, science, finance, and industry to unlock investment in biodiversity and food systems transformation. While transformative technologies and practices exist, questions remain on how they can mature and secure funding. Participants engage in dynamic dialogues on measurable targets, eco-labeling, and value chain finance with the aim of co-creating actionable strategies for cross-sector investment coordination to mobilize capital for sustainable agrifood innovation.

IIIB: Blended finance and social innovation for agrifood business models that reward soil health and biodiversity
Organised by Erik Mathijs, KU Leuven  

Soil health and biodiversity are key to sustainability, food security, and climate resilience. This workshop focuses on how blended finance can support regenerative agriculture and biodiversity through innovative business models. Participants discuss how to align public and private investment with soil health and nature goals. Building on EU visions for nature credits and sustainable agrifood systems the workshop fosters cross-sector dialogue to co-design inclusive and effective financing mechanisms.