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New Danish Government strategies support the green transition in the Agricultural and Food Industries

The Danish government is actively supporting the green transition in the entire food value chain and is committed to support a green and sustainable food supply. A combination of policy and regulatory measures, financial incentives, research & innovation, and collaborative efforts with stakeholders aim to reduce emissions and improve environmental practices in agriculture and promote sustainable food production and consumption.
When 06.05.2024
What
Food Food Ingredients Food Technology Plant-based Biosolutions

Whole-of-Government approach 

Recently, a number of strategies and action plans have been implemented in Denmark to promote sustainability in the food and agriculture sectors and eliminate barriers for a green transition. 

Click through the latest Danish strategies and funding initiatives within the Agricultural and Food industries below to learn how it can help your business grow in Denmark.

 

Apply for fundings before 29 August 2024

Denmark's commitment to sustainability continues to gain momentum with the introduction of targeted initiatives aimed at driving the green transition forward. One such initiative is the "Særpuljer" (Special Pools) program launched in 2024, which plays a pivotal role in advancing sustainable practices. These funding pools offer financial support to projects that focus on innovation, research, and implementation of sustainable solutions, particularly within biosolutions, climate-friendly food, reduction of food waste, and plant-based food.

Aligning perfectly with the Danish government's overarching strategies, the initiative addresses critical areas essential for transitioning to a greener future. By channeling resources into these key sectors, Denmark reinforces its position as a global leader in sustainability and creates a fertile ground for companies to innovate and thrive in the green economy.

The deadline for applying to the "Særpuljer" program is 29. august 2024 kl. 12:00. 

Click to read more about the initiativ and how to apply here (in Danish)

Strategy for Green Jobs in Agriculture

In a Whole-of-Government approach, the Danish government implemented its Strategy for Green Jobs in Agriculture in February 2024. The strategy aims to accelerate the green transition in agriculture through reduced emission and the protection of land and biodiversity while securing a stable supply of food. Fostering innovation and development of green agricultural solutions plus supporting a skilled work force that is qualified and motivated to contributing to a green food supply is at the heart of the strategy.

Plant-Based Food Grant

The government funded Plant-Based Food Grant subsidizes the transition to a green economy for land use and food consumption in Denmark by supporting innovative projects. Towards 2030 a total of DKK 675 million is available for green project upon application.

The vision of the Plant-Based Food Grant is for plant-based foods to play a meaningful role in benefiting the development of the food industry and the health of people and the planet.

Green proteins equals green transition

Green proteins are an integral part of the green transition in the food system, and to promote the supply, production and consumption of green proteins in Denmark, the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries implemented an Action Plan for Plant-Based Food in October 2023 followed by a Strategy for Green Proteins in December 2023. 

Action Plan for Plant-Based Food

The Action Plan for Plant-Based Food aims to promote sustainable food choices and reduce the environmental impact of food production by encouraging the consumption of plant-based foods. It outlines initiatives to increase the availability and affordability of plant-based options and emphasizes collaboration between government, industry, and consumers to foster a cultural shift towards plant-based eating. Key objectives include improving public health outcomes, supporting agricultural sustainability, and mitigating climate change. 

Strategy for Green Proteins

The main focus of the Strategy for Green Proteins is to increase the production of sustainable green protein in Denmark for animal and human consumption. The strategy aims to increase the domestic production of proteins, primarily legumes, remove barriers for introduction of new green proteins, e.g. from bio-refined grass, as well as encourage consumers to eat more green. 

Strategy for Reducing Food Waste

Most recently, Denmark introduced its new Strategy for Reducing Food Waste. The aim is for Denmark to be able to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 and comply with recommendations from the European Commission.

The strategy involves all steps in the food chain from agriculture to consumption and includes four pillars:

  1. Involvement of relevant stakeholders and simplifying the regulatory framework
  2. Collecting more knowledge and data
  3. Information campaigns
  4. International engagement
 

get in touch Want to learn more about how Denmark can support your food adventure?

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