From bio-based fertilisers to nutrient recovery, research is intensifying efforts to achieve Green Deal targets and decarbonise the agriculture sector. Yet, recent farmer protests have brought new challenges and systemic questions to the forefront for the incoming EU institutions: are the targets of producing more, sustainably, and cheaper compatible? Is circularity viable and accessible to all?  

The EU-funded dRural project has entered its final quarter, revealing significant improvements in the quality of life for rural inhabitants through a digital marketplace platform. A video news release highlights the project's success in Extremadura (Spain) and Dubrovnik-Neretva (Croatia).

Bordering Russia, Narva is an Estonian city of some 50,000 inhabitants in the extreme northeast of the country. Lying halfway between Tallinn and Saint Petersburg, it historically relied on strong ties with Russia. Yet, since the annexation of Crimea and especially the invasion of Ukraine, Russians have snubbed it, thus dealing a severe blow to the city's economy. Recently stressed by a conference on cultural management, targeting Western visitors and increasing the attractiveness of its region are now the main priorities to revive Narva’s tourist sector.

Greece has recorded a “monumental growth” in solar power generation and cooperatives are on a promising path to decentralisation and energy democracy. Yet multiple obstacles still prevent many countries from unleashing their potential. And with the commitment of governments called into question by the outcome of the European elections, citizen-led initiatives could take centre stage 

Residents monitoring pollution with their own sensors and videogames involving children in city planning: Alkmaar pushes citizen engagement into new territory. Additionally, thanks to a “digital twin”, the city fosters a new sustainable mindset and increases residents’ control over local policies.