Imagine if grapes could naturally fight off diseases like humans do with a strong immune system. Instead of spraying heavy chemicals, this work finds 'tough' wild grape varieties and uses their DNA to create stronger vines. It's like upgrading the plant's internal software so it doesn't need as much medicine to stay healthy.
Viticulture is the EU cropping system with the highest use of agrochemicals, leading to high costs and biodiversity loss. Climate change is making traditional grape varieties more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Resilient grapevine genotypes developed via New Plant Breeding Techniques and integrated pest management protocols tested in regional demonstration fields.
If you are a vineyard operator dealing with high pesticide costs and pest outbreaks — this project developed resilient genotypes and integrated pest management that can reduce chemical treatments by at least 50%. This lowers input costs and protects the soil.
If you are a breeding company dealing with slow crop adaptation to climate change — this project developed marker-assisted breeding and New Plant Breeding Techniques to identify resilience traits. This accelerates the creation of climate-hardy grape varieties.
If you are a bio-input producer dealing with the need for greener alternatives — this project developed synthetic microbial communities and sustainable strategies against pathogens. This provides a scientific basis for new, non-chemical crop protection products.
Based on available project data, specific pricing or cost structures for the resulting genotypes are not provided.
Yes, the project includes the setup of demonstration fields across the most important EU viticulture regions to test efficacy at scale.
Based on available project data, there are no specific details regarding patents or licensing agreements for the new breeding techniques used.
Yes, it aligns with the EU biodiversity strategy for 2030 by reducing chemical reliance and preserving nature.
The project period runs from 2024-02-01 to 2028-01-31, suggesting that results will be finalized by early 2028.
The consortium is well-balanced for commercialization, featuring 18 partners across 7 countries. With a 28% industry ratio (5 companies, including 5 SMEs), there is a strong link between the 11 research/university entities and the actual market, ensuring that the breeding techniques are grounded in practical agricultural needs.
Contact the Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) in Italy.
Contact us to identify the specific resilient genotypes developed for your region.
