Weed management is generally one of the most challenging aspects of crop production. If not managed properly, weeds can be a serious competitor for nutrients, water or light, often leading to lower yields and higher levels of pests and diseases. The Medicinal and Aromatic Plant (MAP) sector is particularly affected by weeds, as herbal raw materials are strictly standardised according to pharmacopoeia requirements, for example in terms of levels of organic contaminants, pesticides or other toxic residues. This creates many challenges at the cultivation level, but also further down the value chain. There is a strong need to develop an appropriate sustainable weed management strategy for these crop groups. Farmers interested in growing MAPs need clear support and easy access to training, information and exchange of experience on new technologies and the use of non-chemical tools and methods. One of the main objectives of this COST Action is to intensify cooperation, to share knowledge and research results more widely and efficiently along the entire value chain, and at the same time to create an environment for innovation (not only technological). The clear value of this network lies in its strongly emphasised interdisciplinary and multi-stakeholder approach, which is achieved by considering not only the strictly agricultural and technological aspects, but also the socio-economic scientific factors.
Action Chair
