Sustainable Nutrition and Food Production

The funding program focuses on a holistic reduction of environmental burdens and avoidable food losses along the entire value chain in Germany. At its core are resource-efficient and animal-friendly production methods, spanning from primary agricultural production through processing, storage, and transport to trade and consumption. Simultaneously, concepts for consumer education and the communication of sustainability information are promoted to strengthen decision-making and action competencies at all stages of the process. Particular attention is given to children and adolescents, as early awareness of climate-friendly production and consumption patterns lays the foundation for long-term behavioral change. Innovation content, environmental effectiveness, as well as practical relevance and transferability are central evaluation criteria in project funding.

Companies, non-profit and public institutions, educational providers, start-ups, as well as private individuals can submit applications at any time and apply for grants for measures related to sustainable nutrition. Eligible for funding are, among others, energy- and loss-reducing process optimizations, approaches to sustainability assessment of products and procedures, as well as projects to prevent food waste in trade and in large-scale and private households. Additionally, research and development projects in environmentally compatible plant protection, especially in organic farming, are supported. Interdisciplinary exchange and the involvement of consumers in educational concepts increase the impact beyond individual projects. By allowing continuous application submissions without fixed deadlines, the program offers flexible opportunities to introduce new impulses for climate and environmental protection in the food sector and to build sustainable structures in the long term.