On July 2nd, 2025, SPI participated in the final symposium of the GeneBEcon project, held in Brussels and hosted by Plant ETP. As a committed member of the project consortium, SPI supported the event by contributing to communication and dissemination activities, helping ensure that the project’s outcomes reached a broad network of stakeholders across Europe.
The symposium marked a major milestone for the GeneBEcon project, showcasing its most impactful results and exploring the role of New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) in building a more resilient, sustainable, and competitive bioeconomy. The event highlighted how various regulatory pathways influence biosafety data requirements, adoption likelihood, and broader socio-economic effects.
Participants, including policymakers, scientists, industry leaders, and civil society representatives, joined in dynamic sessions focused on:
- The current status and future of NGT legislation in the EU
- Economic models to guide investment decisions
- Scientific breakthroughs in gene-edited crops and microalgae
- Public perception, misinformation, and consumer engagement
- Talent retention and innovation in a competitive global context
A big thank you to Plant ETP for organizing and hosting the symposium, and for creating a space that encouraged meaningful exchange between sectors and disciplines.
Following the symposium, the GeneBEcon consortium convened for its final project meeting in Ghent, hosted by ILVO. The meeting provided an opportunity for partners to reflect on achievements, share key outcomes, and discuss strategies to maximise impact and explore future collaborations.
As part of the meeting, partners were welcomed for an inspiring visit to ILVO’s cutting-edge research facilities, gaining insight into the innovative work being done to advance sustainable agriculture and biotechnology. A big thank you to ILVO for the warm hospitality and excellent visit!
SPI is proud to have supported the GeneBEcon project and looks forward to continued collaboration in shaping the future of Europe’s bioeconomy.
Learn more about the final symposium here: click here to read more
