b"and the second being the legal framework replacing the seed mar-keting directives adopted by the Commission in July 2023. It is worth noting that the Community Plant Variety Office (CPVO) may also have a significant role in the criteria development process when it occurs.NEW TOOLS TO ASSESS SUSTAINABILITY CRITERIALaurens says preliminary findings are already being captured by the project, but results will require much additional analysis. Our research is currently in progress, and we are beginning to observe some promising outcomes when it relates to genotyping, phenotyping, use of models to optimise VCU networks, envirotyp-ing, etc. However, it is essential to exercise caution in presenting these findings, as they must be analysed within the broader context of their implementation, says Laurens. INVITE recognises that the true value of these results lies in understanding their impact across social, environmental, and economic dimensions. Therefore, INVITE will conduct a com-prehensive cost-benefit analysis for each significant outcome. By conducting this evaluation, we aim to provide a holistic understand-ing of the implications and potential benefits associated with our research, he adds.HARMONISING DUS & VCU TESTING IN THE EUInitial findings from the INVITE research reveal significant var-iations in national VCU protocols. These differences encompass various aspects, including approaches, variables assessed per plot, and scales for measuring those variables. These findings were not surprising as it is known among breeders that such differences across Member States occur. However, our ongoing work involves reflect-ing upon these disparities to determine the extent of harmonisation required within VCU, explains Laurens. In the case of DUS testing, a substantial level of harmonisation has already been accomplished through the dedicated efforts of the CPVO over the past two decades.To address that objective of possible harmonisation, INVITE has formed a dedicated focus group comprised of researchers, plantAssessing potato varieties for the presence of the carotene hydroxylase (CHY) breeders, and representatives from examination offices. This col- and the zeaxanthin epoxidase gene (ZEP).laborative platform serves as a forum for in-depth discussions and reflections on the specific requirements and challenges related toextended through to the end of 2024, allowing the project to con-harmonisation. Through these constructive discussions within thetinue for approximately 18 more months. During this period, the focus group, INVITE aims to generate valuable input and recom- project will have to overcome two major challenges.mendations for addressing the harmonisation requirements in theThe first challenge involves completing all the research activi-field of variety testing for variety registration. First results will beties that were initially planned. While a significant amount of data discussed in early 2024. has been collected and compiled to date, analysis is still ongoing. Each work package within the project is diligently working on BENEFITS OF THE INVITE PROJECT implementing and finalising the remaining research tasks. Laurens explains that it is possible that various national deci- The second challenge lies in translating the research results into sions may be different. One Member State could opt for a certainconcrete and meaningful key messages that can effectively target improvement while another might implement a different innovation.each stakeholder group and various policymakers. To address this Therefore, benefits will be country-specific.challenge, INVITE has established five focus groups, following the For example, INVITE has identified a large number of toolssame mechanisms as the harmonisation focus group described ear-which are currently being tested by several examination offices. Suchlier. These focus groups play a crucial role in shaping and refining testing has the objective to assess the benefits of the phenotypingthe project's key messages, says Laurens. The collaborative nature tool as well as to identify the constraints of implementation. Toof these discussions fosters a comprehensive understanding of the date, most of these tools are intended to improve efficiency of theresearch findings and ensures effective communication to drive pos-DUS trials.itive change in the field. Their output will serve as a foundation for Laurens adds that the results of INVITE are very promisingpromoting, disseminating, and communicating the research find-in terms of phenotyping tools to be used to score a given variable orings to a wide range of stakeholders.several variables at the same time.The recent discussions within the consortium have highlighted the necessity of these focus groups to ensure the optimal uptake REMAINING CHALLENGES of the project outcomes and facilitate significant advancements in INVITEs funding and research schedule have recently beenplant variety testing.12ISEED WORLD EUROPEIEUROPEAN-SEED.COM"