BIOFACH 2026: „Growing Tomorrow“ – Focus on the next generation
- BiO ReporterIn
- Jan 28
- 3 min read
From 10 to 13 February 2026, BIOFACH, BÖLW and IFOAM will be putting the spotlight on the next generation. Young players in the international organic sector will be at the heart of a cross-generational dialogue under the theme ‘Growing Tomorrow: Young Voices, Bold Visions’. The world's leading trade fair will show how young people around the world are shaping the future of organic farming with fresh ideas and bold visions. After all, sustainable transformation requires participation, responsibility and new impetus. The opening ceremony will feature a speech by climate protection icon Luisa Neubauer.
Organic is more than a market
In times of global uncertainty – from the climate crisis and geopolitical tensions to growing social divisions – BIOFACH 2026 brings together all generations of the organic movement. The aim is to forge strong alliances between those who laid the foundations for organic farming and food production and those who are carrying the vision forward with new ideas, diverse perspectives and fresh energy.
‘All over the world, young people are bringing new energy to the organic movement with their creativity, entrepreneurial spirit and deep desire for change. By putting these voices at the centre, we are showing that organic is more than a market: it is a global movement on the rise,’
Ravi Prasad, Executive Director of IFOAM – Organics International
The young organic generation is taking on responsibility worldwide, but needs support
The organic sector is under pressure worldwide. Environmental pollution, geopolitical conflicts and economic uncertainty characterise the framework conditions. At the same time, social awareness of food sovereignty, health and climate protection is growing. More than ever, organic is seen as part of the solution. However, the conditions for sustainable transformation can no longer be taken for granted: political support fluctuates, misinformation hinders fact-based debates, and the future of the sector depends on whether it succeeds in specifically promoting and involving the next generation.
On farms, in start-ups, in educational institutions, associations and research, the young generation is introducing creative concepts, networking internationally and combining traditional values with new technologies, social entrepreneurship and political visions. In doing so, they consciously draw on the experience and knowledge of organic pioneers and transform it for the future.
"The big questions of our time can only be answered across generations. At BIOFACH 2026, the stage will belong to the young, committed people who are taking responsibility today and shaping the future. Their commitment shows that changing food and agriculture in a sustainable way requires energy, perspective, vision and experience from across the entire organic sector."
Tina Andres, Chair of the Board of the German Organic Food Industry Association (BÖLW)
Shared responsibility
The social issues we face today are more urgent than ever: How can organic farming remain part of an open, inclusive and democratic movement? How can the generational change be achieved as a collaborative process – based on trust and dialogue? How can young people actively help shape companies, organisations and political structures? The industry itself also faces the challenge of responding to new forms of communication and lifestyles without losing its values and roots. BIOFACH provides a platform for people to meet and discuss these important issues. See you there!
Author: Karin Heinze, BiO Reporter International
Sources: Biofach press release
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