The Danish government has announced that at least DKK 15 billion (€2.01 billion) will be allocated to green research and innovation by 2030.
The new initiative will have four key areas of action:
- Ambitious investments — this will include increasing universities’ research and innovation funds and long-term research capacity by DKK 0.5 billion.
- Strengthening mission-oriented efforts with a new holistic approach.
- Fast-tracking green solutions for the agricultural and food industry of the future, with mandatory implementation and follow-up.
- Fundamental considerations for a green and safe future, including land use and climate adaptation.
In particular, there will be a focus on getting new technologies into society more quickly. To achieve this, the government will work to resolve any barriers such as testing, documentation, or coordination between authorities.
As part of the initiative, DKK 60 million will be allocated to the testing, scaling, and demonstration of new biosolutions, while DKK 54 million will be earmarked for biosolutions research. Meanwhile, DKK 0.5 billion will be allocated to green solutions for the agricultural and food industry, including the development and implementation of climate technologies or initiatives and faster documentation of climate effects.
Solutions for a greener future
The Danish government acknowledges that new climate solutions in the agricultural and food industries will be crucial for the green transition. In a statement, the Ministry of Education and Research explains that this has already begun with the Aftale om et Grønt Danmark (Agreement for a Green Denmark), which is set to introduce what is claimed to be the world’s first carbon tax on agriculture along with various other environmental strategies. The funding allocated as part of the new initiative will help to determine how these solutions can be fully achieved.
Denmark also made headlines last year after becoming the first country in the world to develop a national action plan to promote plant-based foods. The project includes upgrading personnel in public and private kitchens and promoting plant-based diets in primary schools and higher education.
“In Denmark, we are frontrunners when it comes to developing solutions that will create a greener future. Just look at our strong industries in biosolutions and green energy,” said Danish Business Minister Morten Bødskov. “But many companies run up against a wall when new, green ideas need to get out of the laboratory and make a difference in reality. We must change that. That is why we are now strengthening access to test and try out the ideas. Because we know that it is crucial if the company’s solutions are to reach the point where they can make a difference, and crucial if Denmark and Danish companies are to retain our green leading position.”
