Innovations in Agri-Food Systems in Europe: Pathways and Challenges to Inclusion and Sustainability

Abstract

Optimal functioning of agri-food systems is essential for food security and sustainability. In this sector, Europe faces many issues, such as promoting sustainable and healthy food production in the context of social and economic inequalities. To deal with these issues, we propose a conceptual framework relating to the idea of a regional innovation system considering power relations, called the hierarchical regional innovation system (HRIS). This framework is based on the concepts of eco-innovation, inclusive innovation, and transition as its theoretical foundations. The findings show that the framework can be helpful in European rural contexts.