Scientific Outputs
Scientific and technological added value of the project is the discovery of genomic region and genetic marker information that enable new and durable plants to be produced by genetic methods and the ability to produce new plant species resistant to drought on the basis of new plants being tested for exposure to different climatic conditions in Europe.
Tackling ‘grand’ or societal challenges
Within the scope of the DROPS project, a knowledge-based and innovative breeding method has been used, which makes it possible to understand the complex genotype-environmental impact. Hence, many new plant species have been produced and the possibility of selecting the plant species with the highest drought tolerance has arisen.
Industrial Innovation (including innovation in services as well as products and processes)
The necessary data have been obtained in order to understand the genetic mechanisms of plants' response to water use efficiency and water scarcity, to support crop cultivation strategies in unfavorable climatic conditions and to adapt to future water scarcity of European agriculture.
The improved exercise of professional skill
DROPS has adopted a simulation approach based on farmer's practices and environmental scenarios, rather than unique prediction option for whole Europe whic is followed by several seed companies in EU who sell packages to farmers, consisting in risk studies, seeds of adapted genotypes and techniques to counteract unexpected climatic events. 18 PhD students, 67 post doc and 10 permanent young breeders have been trained during DROPS for translating results from the laboratory to the field. DROPS has organized five 'hands on" courses with about 200 participants which let to enhancement of practices in these seed companies. 305 scientists and farmers were informed about the benefits of the Project results.
