Policy Brief 2 - Digital ecosystems for sustainable digitalisation of farming

This policy brief presents insights on how digital ecosystems can foster sustainable digitalisation in European farming, based on the analysis of 19 agricultural Living Labs under the CODECS project. The analysis draws on both institutional and organisational perspectives: Ostrom’s Socio-Ecological Systems Framework and the resources and capabilities approach, often used in enterprise management studies. Key enablers and barriers shaping digital transformation across diverse agricultural contexts are identified. Findings highlight persistent challenges such as fragmented governance, limited digital skills, insufficient infrastructure, and financial constraints, alongside opportunities for innovation and collaboration. Building on this evidence, the brief outlines five policy priorities: strengthening digital ecosystem foundations; empowering human capital and knowledge systems; enabling inclusive and adaptive governance; fostering innovation and financial accessibility; and aligning digitalisation with sustainability. Together, these actions provide a roadmap for developing conducive digital ecosystems that enhance resilience, efficiency, and environmental sustainability in European agriculture.