EU seeks to reset relationship with nature after COVID crisis
Sustainability is the forefront of Fertoz’ value system, leading to healthier food production and ecological preservation for future generations. Organic agriculture likely serves as a good model for sustainable food production. A rapid increase in organic food production in Europe and North America may be needed to satisfy the growing consumer demand for organic and sustainably produced food in these regions. Here is an article demonstrating that the European Union is taking a step in the right direction by reducing pesticide usage, increasing organic production acres and restoring natural ecosystems.
An Article in the “Financial Post”
By: Kate Abnett, Marine Strauss
BRUSSELS (Reuters) – The European Union will step up efforts to make food production more sustainable and halt biodiversity loss, after the coronavirus pandemic has exposed the need for a healthier relationship between human activity and nature.
The European Commission, the bloc’s executive, proposed on Wednesday targets to prevent the degradation of natural habitats that can drive animals into closer contact with humans.
The World Health Organization has said the novel coronavirus probably has its “ecological reservoir” in bats, while scientists say 60% of the infectious diseases that emerged during 1990-2004 were of animal origin.
“By destroying nature at an unprecedented rate… we literally threaten our own life, our health and our wellbeing,” EU climate chief Frans Timmermans said.
The Commission wants the EU’s share of organic farming to reach 25% in 2030, up from 8% today, while 10% of agricultural land must comprise “high diversity” landscapes, such as ponds and hedges.
Other targets would cut chemical pesticide use by 50% and fertiliser use by 20% by 2030.
