Introducing the Basic Set: a practical tool for biodiversity in agri-food systems

In this compact 45-minute session, the Basic Set Biodiversity Criteria is introduced as a practical and field-tested framework that helps food and beverage companies improve biodiversity performance in agricultural production. The Basic Set contains over 80 criteria designed to protect and promote biodiversity along the most risk-prone step of the food value chain: agricultural production.

Participants will gain a clear overview of its structure, key criteria and typical areas of application. The Basic Set supports organisations in integrating biodiversity requirements into standards, supplier guidelines, producer group policies and corporate sustainability strategies. The session also outlines how it strengthens sector alignment on biodiversity action.

The session aims to introduce the Basic Set as a tool for credible biodiversity management; demonstrate how companies can use it to evaluate and improve biodiversity impacts; highlight core criteria such as the biodiversity action plan; present practical examples from current implementation; and provide space for questions and exchange.

The session is designed for sustainability managers, food companies, farmers, standards organisations, NGOs, researchers and policymakers working on biodiversity, agricultural supply chains and corporate sustainability.

The format consists of a focused presentation followed by an open Q&A, supporting practitioners in applying the Basic Set within their organisations.

About Food for Biodiversity:

Food for Biodiversity e.V. is an association of companies in the food sector, environmental associations, standard organisations and scientific institutions founded in 2021. Its aim is to anchor the protection and promotion of biodiversity along the entire value chain of the food industry. It develops practical solutions, promotes dialogue between business, science and environmental organisations and is committed to a sustainable transformation of the industry.

This event is organised as part of the EU LIFE project Fit for Biodiversity (grant agreement No. 101148484).