Self-sufficient and resilient societies capable of overcoming disruptions in supply chains caused by unpredictable crisis become particularly important. Latvia, Estonia and Finland are remote countries in relation to EU markets which makes the societies vulnerable to disruptions in supply chains. Small scale potato growing that is relatively dispersed and well-represented in the region, provides food security in case of urgent challenges (pandemics, political situation that limits supplies, etc.). Potatoes worldwide are recognized as must-grow crop to become self-sufficient. Potato yields more nutritious food more quickly on less land and in harsher climates than any other major crop. However, small scale growers require small quantities of seed potato. This is the main challenge, as the availability of small quantities of healthy seed potato for locally bred (local) and heritage varieties is limited (availability and the use of local varieties significantly shortens supply chains, contributes to food security). Therefore project will work on policy recommendations for expanding the registration of heritage varieties identifying bottlenecks in current legislation. Toolbox for non-commercial users on potato material deposition in and distribution from genebanks will be developed. Marketing strategies for the most suitable local varieties will be reshaped, improving availability of small quantities of healthy seed potato. This will contribute to food security in the region.
Project Partners
- Institute of Agricultural Resources and Economics (lead partner)
- Centre of Estonian Rural Research and Knowledge
- Natural Resources Institute Finland
- Estonian Permaculture association
- Finnish Food Authority
Duration
08/2023–07/2025
Total budget
500 000 €
Funding
Interreg Baltic Sea Region (co-funded by the European Union)
Project page
https://interreg-baltic.eu/project/mainpotre-interreg-baltic-sea-region/
Contact in Finnish Food Authority
Project Manager Liisa Maunuksela, project coordinator Piritta Sokura
