Horizon Europe, the European Union’s flagship research and innovation program, continues its commitment to a sustainable future with its Cluster 6 funding initiatives
Cluster 6 focuses on the intersection of food, bioeconomy, natural resources, agriculture, and the environment, aiming to drive transformative changes across urban and rural areas.
Introducing Horizon European Cluster 6
With a clear focus on environmental sustainability, this cluster seeks to mitigate the effects of climate change, protect biodiversity, and promote circular economies and sustainable agricultural practices.
The overall goal of Cluster 6 is to improve food and nutrition security while ensuring that these objectives are met within the planetary boundaries. The initiative focuses on innovation through research and development in agriculture, fisheries, aquaculture, and food systems.
It also emphasises the importance of digitalisation and technological advancements, helping to create smarter, more efficient systems that reduce the environmental footprint.
Objectives and goals for Cluster 6
One of the main ideas for Cluster 6’s work is its alignment with key European strategies such as the European Green Deal, the Biodiversity Strategy to 2030, the Farm to Fork strategy, and the European Climate Pact.
By integrating these strategies, the program aims to support the EU’s wider environmental goals, including a commitment to carbon neutrality, zero pollution, and biodiversity conservation. The expected impacts of Cluster 6 are outlined in the Horizon Europe strategic plan, which charts the course for achieving these ambitious objectives.
Cluster 6 is designed to address multiple areas of intervention, ranging from environmental observation and biodiversity protection to innovations in the bioeconomy and circular systems. By using cutting-edge research and technology, the cluster aims to reduce environmental degradation, halt biodiversity decline, and foster the transition to a low-carbon, resource-efficient economy.
The areas of focus within Cluster 6 include:
- Environmental Observation: Monitoring the state of the environment, tracking changes, and assessing the impacts of climate change.
- Biodiversity and Natural Resources: Protecting ecosystems and natural resources from over-exploitation and degradation.
- Agriculture, Forestry, and Rural Areas: Developing sustainable farming practices and improving the resilience of rural communities.
- Seas, Oceans, and Inland Waters: Safeguarding aquatic ecosystems and ensuring the sustainability of marine and freshwater resources.
- Food Systems: Promoting sustainable food production and consumption practices to ensure a secure and healthy food supply.
- Bio-based Innovation Systems: Advancing the bioeconomy by fostering innovative approaches to bio-based industries such as forestry and agriculture.
- Circular Systems: Encouraging a circular economy model where resources are used more efficiently and waste is minimised.
Funding opportunities and support
The funding opportunities provided by Cluster 6 are huge, offering financial support for a wide range of projects to tackle these pressing global challenges. Through Horizon Europe’s multiannual work programmes, researchers and innovators can apply for grants to develop cutting-edge solutions that address climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion.
The application process for Cluster 6 funding is outlined in the Horizon Europe funding and tenders portal, where applicants can find detailed instructions on how to apply for support. This funding is available to various stakeholders, from universities and research institutions to businesses and non-governmental organisations, making it an inclusive initiative for anyone interested in advancing sustainability.
