Research partnerships for green and digital transition

Tag: Policy recommendations

  • Lithuanian Research Center for Agriculture and Forestry Hosts Conference on Science-Based Solutions

    Lithuanian Research Center for Agriculture and Forestry Hosts Conference on Science-Based Solutions

    On February 11, the Lithuanian Research Center for Agriculture and Forestry (LAMMC) organized a conference titled Science-Based Solutions for Sustainable Agriculture and Forestry which attracted over 250 participants. The event brought together researchers, policymakers, and industry representatives to discuss how scientific research can address societal needs and contribute to the country’s agricultural and forestry development.

    Key highlights from the conference:

    • LAMMC Director Dr. Gintaras Brazauskas presented the center’s role in implementing the Lithuanian Government’s program, highlighting increased collaboration with industry partners, development of new plant varieties, international partnerships, and scientific training achievements.
    • Researchers presented findings on important topics including:
      • Greenhouse gas emissions research and country-specific measurements
      • Sustainable soil management and functional biodiversity
      • Secondary raw materials usage for soil improvement
      • Plant protection products effectiveness
      • Functional food development opportunities

    The event concluded with a panel discussion on science-based decision-making in agriculture and forestry, emphasizing the need for better communication between scientists, policymakers, business, and society to ensure research-based solutions are effectively implemented.

    This conference demonstrates how RTO Lithuania members like LAMMC are working to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical applications while addressing key societal challenges in agriculture and forestry sectors.

  • RTO Lithuania prepares the S&T policy recommendations for the new government

    RTO Lithuania prepares the S&T policy recommendations for the new government

    The Association of Research and Technology Organizations (RTO Lithuania), representing three leading Lithuanian research institutes, has presented comprehensive recommendations for strengthening the country’s science, technology, and innovation (STI) ecosystem.

    The recommendations emphasize Lithuania’s potential to become a leading STI country while highlighting the need for fundamental changes in the current system. Among the key proposals is the initiation of a National Research, Technology and Innovation Programme focused on climate resilience and strategic autonomy, covering areas such as plant technologies, semiconductors, and renewable energies.

    A major emphasis is placed on bridging the gap between industry, research institutes, and universities through an Excellence in Applied Sciences programme. The association also calls for enhanced collaboration between science, business, and investors through pilot demonstration projects.

    To address brain drain and attract talent, RTO Lithuania recommends establishing a researcher attraction grant programme coordinated by the Lithuanian Research Council, including support for returning Lithuanian researchers and foreign experts.

    The recommendations also focus on reforming the scientific evaluation system, making it less dependent on quantitative indicators and more aligned with EU Research Area reforms. Additionally, the association proposes improvements to the industrial doctorate program and calls for increasing the number of PhD students while enhancing their study conditions.

    A crucial point in the recommendations addresses research funding, highlighting the current shortfall in R&D expenditure (0.47% of GDP) and emphasizing the need to reach the targeted 0.75% of GDP by the end of 2024, as agreed in the Agreement between Lithuanian political parties.

    The proposals also include strengthening science diplomacy, increasing internationalization through joint research programs, and enhancing funding for the Next 100 programme, which supports student internships at leading global institutions.

    These recommendations were presented by Sigitas Rimkevičius, President of the Association’s Governing Board, representing the collective vision of the Centre for Physical and Technological Sciences, the Lithuanian Energy Institute, and the Lithuanian Agrarian and Forestry Research Centre.

    The document can be found here: S&T policy recommendations