Forschungsinstitut für biologischen Landbau FiBL
The
Forschungsinstitut für biologischen Landbau (FiBL)
editThe Forschungsinstitut für biologischen Landbau (FiBL) is a globally leading research institution specializing in the advancement of organic farming. Founded in 1973 in Switzerland, FiBL now has locations in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Hungary, and France, as well as a joint representation in Brussels under the name FiBL Europe.
Key Products and Services
editFiBL offers a wide range of services and products aimed at promoting and supporting organic farming. These include:
- Interdisciplinary Research: FiBL works closely with farmers and the food industry on innovative and cost-effective solutions to increase agricultural productivity while keeping environmental, health, and socioeconomic impacts in mind[1][4].
- Consulting and Knowledge Transfer: The institute provides tailored consulting, training, and conferences to directly transfer acquired knowledge into agricultural practice. This includes topics such as crop production, animal husbandry, food processing and marketing, as well as residues in organic food[2][4].
- Quality Assurance: FiBL creates and maintains lists of approved substances to ensure that only permitted materials are used in organic farming. It also offers scientific expertise and consulting on issues related to residues in organic food and feed[2].
- International Projects: FiBL is involved in international research and development projects, particularly in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe, in close collaboration with local partner organizations. It supports the development of sustainable agriculture and offers expertise in market development[1].
Main Mission and Values
editThe main mission of FiBL is to promote organic farming through cutting-edge research and practical solutions. The institute is committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture that also considers socioeconomic and health aspects. The values of FiBL include:
- Sustainability: FiBL works to develop long-term viable agricultural systems that protect the environment and promote biodiversity.
- Interdisciplinarity: By collaborating between research and practice as well as with various stakeholders in the food industry, it ensures that solutions are comprehensive and effective.
- Knowledge Transfer: The institute places great importance on transferring research results into practice to continuously improve organic farming[1][4].
Sustainability Goals and Initiatives
editFiBL pursues several sustainability goals and initiatives:
- Biodiversity and Environmental Protection: Through research and consulting, FiBL aims to increase biodiversity and promote environmental protection. Examples include projects for the development of agroforestry systems and the promotion of species diversity in agroecosystems[1][4].
- Climate Change and Energy Efficiency: FiBL investigates strategies to counteract the effects of climate change, such as developing cultivation systems that reduce heat and drought stress in plants[1].
- International Cooperation: By participating in international projects and collaborating with global organizations such as FAO and IFOAM – Organics International, FiBL contributes to the global promotion of organic farming[1].
Thus, FiBL is a central actor in promoting sustainable and future-oriented agriculture that addresses both local and global challenges.