New EU project at Kassel University optimizes plant cultivation

The sub-project "Agricultural Practices" - headed by Dr. Sascha Kirchner from the University of Kassel - focuses on the question of how crops can be supported by organic mulch materials. The research at the University of Kassel is being carried out in close cooperation between the departments of Agricultural Engineering and Organic Plant Protection.

The project aims to improve plant production through so-called ecosystem services. EcoStack develops and promotes ecological, economical and sustainable plant production. This is to be achieved through the protection of functional biodiversity. By designing and implementing integrated systems, the project contributes to the long-term sustainability of agriculture and food production. To this end, farmers, producers and stakeholders work together to identify the necessary measures for sustainable increases in productivity.

The project "Stacking of ecosystem services: mechanisms and interactions for optimum crop protection, pollination enhancement, and productivity" has been running for five years since September 2018. The University of Kassel is one of 24 international partners. EcoStack is a Horizon 2020 (H2020) EU project with a total budget of 10 million euros. H2020 is the EU's framework program for research and innovation. Project funding through the program is intended to ensure sustainable development.

Contact:
Dr. sc. agr. Sascha Kirchner
University of Kassel
Department of Agricultural Engineering
Phone: +49 5542 98-1651
Email: sascha.kirchner[at]uni-kassel[dot]de