This dialogue, led by Professor Strohschneider, brought together producers, scientists, environmental organizations, and consumer representatives to find consensual solutions to the challenges faced by European agriculture.
Agriculture is fundamental to Europe’s health, economy, and self-sufficiency. However, farmers are increasingly confronted with growing challenges, such as global competition and climate change. Europe is the fastest-warming continent, experiencing extreme weather events like heatwaves, droughts, and floods, which are all taking a toll on agricultural productivity. Soils are becoming increasingly depleted and polluted, which reduces their fertility and their ability to retain water and carbon. Furthermore, in some parts of Europe, water availability has already become a serious issue.
Despite these challenges, the agricultural sector also holds many solutions to mitigate and even reverse some of these impacts. The dialogue highlighted the progress made towards more sustainable farming, but also acknowledged that more ambitious steps need to be taken. Among the recommendations presented, there was a strong emphasis on ensuring fair incomes for farmers, promoting sustainable practices, and reducing red tape, especially for small and family farms.
The President of the European Commission, who closed the event, emphasized the need to continue supporting agriculture that works in harmony with nature and ensuring that farmers are fairly compensated for their environmental services. She also announced that, within the first 100 days of her next mandate, she would present a roadmap for the agricultural sector based on the recommendations of the dialogue.
This meeting represents an important step towards a more competitive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food system in Europe.
4 September 2024/ European Commission/ European Union.
https://ec.europa.eu/