Peat has long been a cornerstone of horticulture, widely used for its ability to retain moisture and nutrients. However, its environmental cost is substantial. Peat extraction depletes fragile ecosystems, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, and undermines global climate goals. With sustainability at the heart of the European Green Deal, the need for eco-friendly alternatives is more urgent than ever.
Enter PEATLESS — a groundbreaking EU-funded project aiming to reduce the use of peat in the cultivation of mushrooms, seedlings, and ornamental plants. Over the next three years, 12 partners from four European countries will collaborate to develop and validate bio-based, sustainable growing media. These alternatives will be tested directly with growers and enhanced by digital tools, training, and business support strategies.
Beyond simply replacing peat, PEATLESS aspires to reshape agricultural practices across Europe. By 2050, the project envisions a future where peat use is significantly reduced, CO₂ emissions are lowered, and thousands of growers benefit from sustainable innovations that align with evolving environmental regulations and green policy frameworks.

A Dynamic Kick-Off Meeting in La Rioja
The PEATLESS project officially launched with a vibrant Kick-Off Meeting (KOM) on May 27–28, 2025, hosted by CTICH in the scenic region of La Rioja, Spain. The event gathered partners in person and online to establish collaboration, align goals, and lay the groundwork for the project’s next steps.
The first day of the meeting was rich with presentations, discussions, and strategy sessions. After a warm welcome, the consortium delved into the technical core of the project, with each Work Package (WP) introduced by its respective leaders. The day concluded with lively open discussions, a winery visit, and a convivial consortium dinner in Logroño, strengthening the bonds among project partners.
On Day 2, the team ventured into the field, visiting demonstration sites including mushroom grower Juanjo Gil and seedling producer Ramiro Arnedo. The day closed with a guided tour of CTICH’s facilities and a shared lunch in Autol — a fitting end to a collaborative and inspiring two-day launch.

INNOVARUM Team at PEATLESS KOM.
Innovarum’s Role: Driving Communication and Collaboration
As a seasoned participant in EU-funded initiatives, Innovarum proudly joins PEATLESS as the leader of Work Package 5 (WP5), dedicated to dissemination and communication. With this being their 14th collaborative project, Innovarum brings extensive experience in transforming technical research into accessible, actionable knowledge for stakeholders across the agri-food value chain.
Throughout the three-year lifespan of PEATLESS, Innovarum will be responsible for ensuring that the project’s outcomes reach the right audiences — from policymakers and researchers to growers and industry leaders. Their work includes managing the project’s digital presence, developing outreach materials, and coordinating educational content that supports growers in adopting peat alternatives. In addition, Innovarum will support efforts to overcome socio-cultural barriers by promoting awareness, fostering dialogue, and encouraging uptake of sustainable growing practices. Their strategic communication approach is essential for building trust, driving adoption, and ensuring that PEATLESS leaves a lasting impact.
PEATLESS marks a major step toward a more sustainable future for European horticulture. With strong collaboration, a clear mission, and the active participation of expert partners like Innovarum, the project is poised to deliver real-world change. As the journey begins, the KOM has set a solid foundation for innovation, action, and a greener tomorrow.