Trusticert’s Role in the Project

Trusticert is participating in the Pathways project as a supplier for the lead entity, playing a strategic role in coordinating the Living Hub Italy. Our main goal is to lead the development of a labeling standard that enhances the value of meat produced by AIAG-affiliated farmers who adopt sustainable regenerative agriculture practices.

Project Objectives

The Pathways project aims to facilitate the transition from traditional industrial farming to more sustainable production models. This objective is structured around three main directions:

• Promoting regenerative agriculture practices that contribute to soil health, biodiversity, and animal welfare.
• Defining clear and verifiable criteria for a voluntary labeling system that certifies AIAG farmers’ commitment to sustainability.
• Engaging stakeholders in the Italian agri-food sector through the Living Hub Italy, a participatory lab for discussion and innovation.

The Labeling Standard

The labeling standard under development aims to ensure transparency and traceability throughout the entire production chain. Strict standards will be established for:

• Sustainable pasture management and animal feeding.
• Reduction of environmental impact through regenerative agricultural practices.
• Animal welfare as a fundamental pillar of production.
• Traceability and certification supported by innovative technologies.

Value for AIAG Farmers

Through this standard, AIAG-affiliated farmers will be able to:

• Increase the commercial value of their meat.
• Demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability and animal welfare.
• Access new markets that prioritize quality and sustainability.

The Living Hub Italy

The Living Hub Italy represents the beating heart of the project, where institutions, farmers, technicians, and researchers collaborate to:

• Share best practices and innovations in regenerative agriculture.
• Jointly define the criteria for the labeling standard based on respect for the physiology of farmed animals and their breed predispositions.
• Promote open dialogue among all actors in the supply chain.

Towards a Sustainable Future

Pathways is not just a technical project; it is a movement towards a new vision of agriculture and farming. With our coordination role, Trusticert is committed to facilitating this transition, creating a replicable model that can inspire other organizations at both national and international levels.

References

Coordinated by the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) and consisting of 30 partners from 12 countries, this €9 million, five-year (2021-2026) Horizon 2020 project contributes to the EU’s Farm to Fork strategy, which is at the core of the European Green Deal.

Resources

pathways-project.com