The European Landowners' Organization (ELO) is a unique federation of national associations from Europe and beyond, dedicated to representing the interests of landowners, farmers, foresters, and rural entrepreneurs .
We address issues that affect European rural areas, which represent over 80% of the EU's territory and are home to 30% of its population*.
Located in Brussels, the heart of the European Union, ELO stands as an independent non-governmental organization providing support to its members on a range of countryside-related matters. These encompass land management, agriculture, forestry, hunting, land access, and property rights.
*Source: According to the 2018 LAU (Local Administrative Unit) level modelling by the JRC Eurostat demography data.
ELO fosters knowledge exchange and collaboration
The immediate and future impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss create short and long-term challenges to rural life and all the businesses reliant upon it. Therefore, ELO, in collaboration with its members and partners is dedicated to a sustainable approach to private land conservation, firmly anchored in the three pillars of sustainability: environmental, social, and economic.
Our array of events includes workshops, conferences, webinars, dinners, and field visits, catering to gatherings ranging from 20 to 1,500 attendees. Our reach spans local, national, European, and international levels.
ELO advocates to support sustainable practices
Through the organization of interdisciplinary meetings, ELO facilitates the convergence of key stakeholders, enabling them to share insights and perspectives. By engaging with policymakers at different events on the local, regional, national and European level, ELO plays a role in shaping inclusive legislation that supports private landowners and encourages sustainable land use.
Beyond policy advocacy, ELO drives incentives and reward mechanisms for landowners and farmers engaging in nature-friendly activities through countless projects and initiatives.
ELO serves as a unified voice for landowners and farmers
Within Europe and beyond, ELO has a unique position across the rural, agricultural and environmental sectors with its ability to engage in policy, compile scientific literature, and launch projects to support rural life.
For nearly 26 years, our CountrySide magazine has been the voice of land managers and rural entrepreneurs, fostering discussion and sharing best practices.