This project aims to evaluate novel breeding technologies on Agroscope’s "Protected Site" (PS), which was established by Federal mandate to enable research on genetically modified plants and new breeding techniques (NBTs). The PS provides an experimental site protected from vandalism for field trials, allowing scientists to assess biosafety, agronomic performance, and regulatory challenges. Special attention is given to an expected increase in activities on the PS, due to various new projects financed by the National Research Programme 84 "Plant Breeding Innovation". The overall project objectives are to

1. maintain and develop the high research, security and biosafety standards that have distinguished the PS so far;
2. enable field trials with NBTs on the site, to meet the requirements set by the Federal council’s mandate, and to collect valuable experience with the latest technological and breeding advances,
3. engage further with policymakers, journalist, stakeholder and the public to maintain a high trust and transparency and to disseminate the research findings on the potential benefit and risks of NBTs.