We are urgently developing research requirements with other European laboratories to make sure we understand and the disease (Schmallenberg) better.Copenhagen focus switches to farming
FARM leaders from across the world were given the opportunity to voice their opinions at the key climate change talks in Copenhagen over the weekend as the discussion turned to agriculture and its role in global warming.
The Agriculture and Rural Development Day was organised to run alongside the event and saw farmers, policy makers and stakeholders gather to look at the challenges posed by climate change.
Pekka Pesonen, secretary general of the European farmers’ organisation Copa-Cogeca said it was vital world leaders appreciate the positive contribution farmers can play.
He warned the projected climate changes in the coming years will have a negative impact on crop yields, livestock management and location of production, threatening farm incomes and causing land abandonment in some parts of Europe.
But despite the challenges, he said farming was well placed to take advantage of new technologies to help reduce emissions as well as adapt to the new conditions.
He said: “If we can introduce new crops more resilient to water scarcity or wet conditions, we will, at the same time, contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through the more efficient use of energy intensive inputs such as fertilizers.
“Mitigation options providing multiple environmental benefits should also be favoured. For example, pasture-based livestock systems can simultaneously contribute to carbon sequestration, biodiversity protection, water storage and preventions of fires, floods and erosion.”
He highlighted the role of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) as a potential vehicle for farmers to be encouraged to do more to help the environment and called for more advisory and training services to help the industry deliver on its environmental goals.
