Future Fields: Innovation, Sustainability, Competitiveness in the Next CAP

As the European Union prepares for the next reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), we stand at a critical juncture. The agricultural sector is under increasing pressure to deliver on the environmental objectives, ensure food security and productivity, and drive the energy transition while simultaneously responding to mounting geopolitical uncertainty, climate change, biodiversity loss, energy security concerns, and increasing pressure on farm incomes and competitiveness. At the same time, discussions remain deeply divided over the allocation of the EU budget and the adequacy of funding for farmers

With such mounting pressures, the development of a Common Agricultural Policy which provides support for both climate resilient actions and supports the competitiveness of European producers is critical. The path to a sustainable and productive future relies heavily on innovation, and skill based leadership. 

The first panel will aim to deepen the discussion on the balance between competitiveness and sustainability, take stock of recent developments, and further steer exchanges towards:

• The role of innovation and advisory services in supporting land managers and farmers.
  
• The range of tools available to strengthen the economic viability of farms and rural territories;
  
• as well as the importance of simpler and more predictable rules to effectively accompany the sector’s transition.

However, as we look toward the future of CAP, it is crucial to recognise that agriculture does not stand alone. Forestry, despite its fundamental role in Europe’s land use, climate strategy, and bioeconomy, would benefit from a more coherent and visible place within the CAP framework, particularly in the context of evolving policy priorities. 

Europe’s forests are central to delivering climate mitigation, biodiversity protection, renewable materials, and energy security. They underpin a growing bioeconomy that reduces dependence on fossil-based resources while providing high-quality jobs in rural areas. To fulfil this role, the forestry sector must remain competitive, resilient, and innovative.

Achieving this requires sustained investment in modern forestry technologies, digitalisation, and advanced machinery, as well as a strong focus on maintaining and developing the high level of skills required by forestry professionals and forest contractors. Without targeted support, the sector risks falling behind at a time when its contribution to Europe’s economic, environmental, and strategic objectives has never been more vital.

This event argues that the next CAP must move to a strong balance between climate resilience measures and an enabler of productivity. Furthermore this event will explore the strategic opportunity to strengthen rural vitality by exploring the future of the forestry industry and how with a strong support base it can continue to be a pillar of Europe’s bioeconomy.