Ireland and Germany unite to advance sustainable food systems
Irish Delegation Visits Regensburg to Explore Organic-Regional Value Chains
As part of their trip to Germany, an Irish delegation visited the Regensburg region on Friday, February 13, 2026. The purpose of the visit was to learn firsthand about organic-regional value chains, with a particular focus on the work of the Stadt.Land.Regensburg eco-model region.
The visit emphasized international professional exchange, centering on best practices and discussions about how organic-regional approaches can be implemented and further developed under varying regional conditions.
The program included multiple stops along the entire value chain—from organic production and processing to marketing and communal catering. Highlights included visits to Biolandhof Heitzer in Bach an der Donau, the Ebenbeck family farm in Sinzing (Dürnstetten), and a school kitchen operated by Johanniter Menüservice in Regensburg. Beyond gaining practical insights into organic-regional value chains, the Irish delegation showed particular interest in collaboration with the Regensburg District Food Safety Authority. Key topics included the authority's role as a reliable partner for businesses and the interplay between advisory services, inspections, and cooperative dialogue across the food supply chain.
District Administrator Tanja Schweiger stated: "The international exchange provided an opportunity to learn from one another and gather new ideas for the sustainable development of agriculture and food systems."
Initial contact with the Irish Consulate General was established in autumn 2025 at the Bavarian Business Association (VBW) in Munich. Shortly afterward, Consul General James C. O'Shea, head of the Irish Consulate General for Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, met with Tanja Schweiger at the Regensburg District Office for an exchange.
Schweiger emphasized: "The visit by the Irish delegation demonstrates that ourStadt.Land.Regensburgeco-model region is recognized internationally as a point of reference for organic-regional value chains. The open dialogue with our Irish partners was highly beneficial for both sides. The close collaboration between producers, processors, communal catering, and food safety authorities underscores how essential reliable structures and cooperative partnerships are for a sustainable agricultural and food economy."
The delegation saw firsthand how the eco-model region successfully implements organic-regional approaches through teamwork and commitment.
The visit reinforced the importance of international exchange on organic-regional strategies and highlighted the value of mutual learning in advancing sustainable systems.
