POMATO: safeguarding potatoes and tomatoes 

Coordinated by the Universidad de Burgos (Spain), this project focuses on two quarantine bacterial diseases: Clavibacter sepedonicus (responsible for ring rot in potatoes) and Ralstonia solanacearum (causing bacterial wilt in potatoes and tomatoes). These pathogens are ranked among the most critical threats to EU agriculture, with significant implications for production and trade. 

To address this, POMATO brings together 16 partners from Europe and Latin America in a 48-month, €6.5 million effort. The project develops advanced tools for early detection, bio-based control solutions, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, tested directly in the field. They combine biotechnology, AI-driven modelling, and cross-continental trials, to set new standards for safeguarding these essential crops. 

EmergeNOW: protecting Europe’s bio-borders 

EmergeNOW tackles plant health challenges at Europe’s entry points. Starting in September 2025, the project will deploy next-generation technologies to improve detection and response during imports. 

Its goal is to strengthen EU biosecurity by combining molecular diagnostics, AI-driven tools, and robotics. Among its innovations are rapid DNA tests for pathogens, hyperspectral imaging for symptom detection, and autonomous drones to monitor pest vectors like Trioza erytreae and Diaphorina citri, the insects responsible for spreading citrus greening (Huanglongbing, HLB). By testing solutions across Europe, the USA, Uganda, Vietnam, and Cyprus, EmergeNOW ensures a truly global response to emerging threats. 

A common battle 

These project share many objectives, research topics and expected results with CITRUSBUSTERS. We look forward to engage each other in workshops, shared event aiming at sharing knowledge, avoiding replications, and compare our solutions on a global scale, to have a global unified response for a stronger agroeconomy. Together, with sustainable, science-driven strategies.