Thünen Institute Launches Focus on One Health

The Thünen Institute launched its fourth thematic focus area dedicated to One Health on September 30, 2026, examining how human, animal, and ecological health operate as an interconnected system across agricultural and food supply chains.

Thünen Institute Launches One Health Initiative

The newly launched initiative explores the complex relationships binding food production, soil integrity, animal welfare, and human well-being. Researchers from eight specialized Thünen divisions—including farm economics, market analysis, climate-smart agriculture, agricultural technology, organic farming, sea fisheries, Baltic Sea fisheries, and fishery ecology—are contributing cross-disciplinary expertise. Their findings will be distributed over the coming weeks through explanatory articles, infographics, and podcasts hosted on the institute’s official website.

The thematic focus highlights diverse pathways toward sustainable agricultural systems. Some strategies depend on consumer choices, such as moderating meat consumption by substituting daily portions with traditional meals like a Sunday roast, while others demand systemic overhauls like circular economy models. Additional approaches embrace technological innovations such as indoor farming alongside alternative proteins derived from algae, mussels, and insects.

Virtual Colloquium Addresses Food Waste Standards

Schneider's presentation focuses on the development of an international ISO standard designed to reduce food waste.

Registration for the online colloquium, titled “Reducing Food Waste: From Standard to Practice,” remains open through the institute’s portal. Subsequent weekly releases will feature research updates on the Planetary Health Diet, the environmental and health benefits of legumes, soil management techniques, and sustainable seafood sourcing.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Thünen Research Program

Which institutes are contributing to the One Health focus area?

Researchers from eight distinct Thünen branches are involved: farm economics, market analysis, climate-smart agriculture, agricultural technology, organic farming, sea fisheries, Baltic Sea fisheries, and fishery ecology.

What previous thematic focuses preceded this program?

The One Health program represents the fourth thematic focus implemented by the Thünen Institute, following prior initiatives centered on women in rural areas, soil, and water.

How can the public access the research materials?

All explanatory texts, infographics, and podcasts are compiled in a dedicated dossier on the Thünen Institute website, marked with a specific program logo for public and journalistic use.