Green Farming: Productive Soil Cultivation, Healthy Spraying and Fertilization

<< Background >>The Green Farming project was developed to respond to two critical needs: (1) increasing sustainability and environmental awareness in agriculture, and (2) modernizing agricultural vocational education to better engage young learners. Unsustainable practices such as overuse of chemical fertilizers and inefficient soil cultivation threaten soil health and food safety, while the aging farmer population and declining interest in vocational agricultural education create long-term risks. The project aims to tackle these challenges by integrating digital tools (e.g. VR-based tractor training and 360° educational videos) into the VET curriculum. This approach fosters both occupational safety and environmentally friendly farming. Through cross-sector collaboration and innovative curriculum design, the project supports the EU Green Deal and contributes to enhancing the attractiveness of VET education in agriculture, while addressing the skills gap in the agricultural workforce.<< Objectives >>The primary objective of the Green Farming project was to increase the quality, attractiveness, and relevance of vocational education in the agricultural sector through innovative, digital, and sustainability-oriented learning tools. By implementing this project, we aimed to equip VET students, teachers, and farmers with knowledge and skills in climate-smart practices, occupational health and safety, and efficient soil and machinery management. Specifically, we wanted to develop and disseminate a modular curriculum supported by VR-based training, 360° videos, and an open-access e-learning platform. Through these tools, we sought to foster safer work environments, reduce environmental impact, and promote a more modern image of agriculture. Ultimately, the project intended to contribute to the European Green Deal objectives by aligning agricultural training with ecological and digital transformation trends while also increasing the motivation of youth to engage in the agricultural profession.<< Implementation >>The Green Farming project was implemented through a series of structured work packages. First, we conducted a transnational research and needs analysis involving literature reviews, surveys, and focus groups with students, teachers, and farmers to identify sectoral challenges. Based on these findings, we developed a modular curriculum covering sustainable soil management, safe spraying, fertilization, and tractor operation. This curriculum was supported by the production of digital training materials, including VR-based simulations, 360° instructional videos, and an online learning platform. We conducted pilot tests and impact evaluations using pre- and post-assessments to measure learning outcomes. In parallel, we organized multiplier events, dissemination workshops, and transnational meetings to engage stakeholders and promote the project results. All activities were coordinated across partner countries to ensure quality, transferability, and long-term sustainability.<< Results >>The project produced several concrete and high-impact outputs. These include:A comprehensive Study and Common Analysis Report outlining training gaps and sectoral challenges;A Green Farming Modular Curriculum, aligned with EU sustainability goals and tailored for VET students, teachers, and farmers;A suite of Digital Training Materials, including VR-based simulations, instructional videos, and interactive e-learning modules accessible via a multilingual online platform;An Impact Evaluation Report based on pre/post-assessments and stakeholder feedback;National and international Multiplier Events and dissemination activities reaching over 500 participants.These results significantly improved digital competencies, occupational safety awareness, and environmental responsibility among target groups, while increasing the attractiveness and modernization of agricultural VET.