The plan to save European farming

A report on the future of farming was presented to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels, following seven months of negotiations among 29 organizations involved in the agri-food sector. The report emphasizes that traditional farming practices are unsustainable in the face of climate change and economic challenges. It highlights the need for income support targeted at small- and medium-sized farmers, who represent the majority in the EU, without tying it to compliance with additional environmental regulations. The report also addresses the urgent need for sustainable diets, advocating for reduced consumption of animal-based proteins and promoting plant-based alternatives. It calls for a review of EU food labeling laws and marketing practices aimed at children, suggesting that sustainable choices should become the default option for consumers. Despite the EU's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, no specific targets for the agricultural sector have been established. Furthermore, the report urges the revision of outdated animal welfare regulations, including a proposed ban on farm cages, which should be accompanied by a suitable transition period. It also recommends the establishment of a benchmark for assessing farm sustainability and the creation of a just transition fund to support the agri-food sector's shift towards more climate-friendly practices. Von der Leyen plans to incorporate the findings of this stakeholder dialogue into her vision for agriculture and food within her first 100 days in office. The participants have proposed forming a new consultative body, the European Board for Agri Food (EBAF), to continue discussions on these critical issues.