In a global context where the sustainability and resilience of agrifood systems have become unprecedented imperatives, the latest interview with the Luxembourg European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Christophe Hansen, reveals a daring vision for the future of the sector. While the European Union (EU) abandons some of the constraints imposed to promote a greening of agriculture, it is crucial to step back and examine the wider ramifications of these decisions. Rather than a simple softening of standards, this new paradigm could be seen as an opportunity to redefine the role of farmers not only as food producers, but also as guardians of a sustainable future.
### An agrifice economy changing
In recent decades, modern agriculture has seen the emergence of major challenges, ranging from climate change to soil degradation. This context raises the question of whether farmers can make the pivot necessary to adapt to an agrifood system which must both be productive and responsible. In 2020, the “farm at the fork” strategy established ambitious environmental objectives for 2030, but the more conciliatory tone of the European Commission indicated a desire to create a dialogue with farmers.
In this light, accusations of decline in terms of environmental protection must be balanced with the commitment to promote innovative technologies and to lighten the administrative burden weighing on operators. Hansen stresses that agriculture has managed to reduce its emissions by 2 % between 2023 and 2024, thus surpassing the transport sector in this initiative. These figures, although encouraging, should encourage a deeper reflection on the way in which innovation and investment can be catalyzed for future progress.
### Administrative freedom: a necessary evil?
The commissioner said that the “too many administrative charges” are an obstacle to farmer-environment. However, this relaxation of standards could be perceived as a double-edge sword. If, on the one hand, it lightens the burden of operators, this could also open the door to less sustainable agricultural practices. The challenge will reside in the establishment of a framework where innovation becomes synonymous with sustainability. The EU will have to establish robust mechanisms to effectively encourage farmers to adopt environmentally friendly practices, while granting them the flexibility necessary to navigate in uncertain times.
### Organic farming: from vision to realities
One of the flagship objectives of the European agricultural policy is to bring to 25 % (against 11 % currently) the area cultivated in organic farming by 2030. Commissioner Hansen promises an investment of 15 billion euros to achieve this. However, these ambitions come up against structural obstacles. For example, the negative perception of organic farming due to its uncertain profitability has the consequence of discouraging many farmers to take the plunge.
An innovative approach would be to strengthen organic supply chains by promoting short circuits and partnerships with public procurement, such as school canteens. This could create a stable demand and would make it possible to achieve the set objective while promoting the local economy.
### A holistic approach: markets, innovation and education
For the transition to sustainable agriculture is fruitful, it must be part of a systemic approach where education plays a central role. The inclusion of awareness -raising initiatives to train new farmers in sustainable methods and the use of new technologies will be crucial. In parallel, the export of organic products could not only generate income, but also make the European organic label a model of inspiration for other regions.
The EU could also consider the creation of a differentiated certification mechanism, encouraging sustainable practices while rewarding farmers who engage in environmentally friendly disciplines. The idea is not only to impose limits, but to create an ecosystem where each farmer can see a clear and stimulating horizon line.
### Conclusion: a long -term and inclusive vision
The European agricultural sector is at the crossroads. The issues are vast and complex. If the softening of standards might seem a step back, it could also carry in it the germs of a green industrial revolution, provided that the emphasis is placed on collaboration, innovation and sustainability. The key lies in the ability of decision-makers to transform the vision of an attractive and fair agro-food system into a tangible reality that benefits the whole of society, today and tomorrow. It is an exciting and necessary challenge, which could redraw the European rural landscape for future generations.