While the European Green Deal sets ambitious goals for our food systems, the real challenge lies in turning these high-level policies into actual change on the ground. Agriculture is right at the heart of this plan, with strategies like “Farm to Fork” and the “Soil Strategy” aiming to create a more sustainable future for rural areas. Yet, despite these clear objectives, we are still quite far from an effective transition that relies on integrated, science-based solutions.
This paper dives into the debate around these challenges, looking at how European policies can be applied in practice. By analyzing official documents and global data, it highlights how different environmental and social goals can work together, but it also identifies major roadblocks like reduced crop yields, higher demand for land, and the complexities of food waste and global access.
To move forward, the study suggests blending two main approaches: one that focuses on eco-friendly production and another that emphasizes social justice and food sovereignty. Ultimately, transforming agriculture is more than just a technical fix; it requires a holistic approach that considers everything from culture and economics to local participation. True progress will only happen when we align our policies and recognize farmers not just as food producers, but as essential managers of our natural landscapes.
Learn more about this study here: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agsy.2023.103634
Reference:
Boix-Fayos, C., & De Vente, J. (2023). Challenges and potential pathways towards sustainable agriculture within the European Green Deal. Agricultural Systems, 207, 103634.