The CARINA project was represented at the 34th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition, where project partners shared research findings on cropping systems supporting the bioeconomy, with a particular focus on camelina and carinata.
During the conference, Louise Hermet from ARVALIS presented results developed in collaboration with Terres Inovia and Saipol within the framework of CARINA. The presentation focused on experiences with integrating camelina into French cropping systems as an intermediate crop.
The research explored opportunities for developing camelina in two different production systems: winter double-cropping systems in southwestern France and summer double-cropping systems in central, eastern and western France.
One of the key messages presented at the conference was the importance of timing. For summer intermediate crops, early sowing, preferably before 10 July, was identified as essential for successful crop establishment. Early sowing helps maximize the benefits of summer rainfall and can contribute to earlier harvests. In winter intermediate cropping systems, optimized sowing dates and timely harvest are equally important to ensure that the following primary crop can be established under suitable conditions.
The presentation also highlighted several areas where additional research is still needed. These include soil preparation methods, seeding techniques and the management of subsequent crops following winter camelina cultivation. Addressing these questions will help improve the integration of camelina into diversified farming systems and support its wider adoption in European agriculture.
By sharing these results at EUBCE, CARINA contributed to the exchange of knowledge on sustainable crop diversification and the role of intermediate oilseed crops in future bio-based value chains.
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