New recommendations from ProVeg International advocate for reforms to support farmers transitioning to sustainable practices and diversified production

A recent policy brief from ProVeg International (published 14 December 2024) highlights the pressing need for transformative changes in the European Union’s agricultural sector to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and food security concerns. The report, titled Future Fit Farming: Policy Solutions for a Diverse, Resilient EU Farming Sector, outlines key strategies for fostering sustainable farming practices, empowering farmers, and aligning agricultural systems with environmental and economic goals.

Agriculture accounts for 11-13% of the EU’s net greenhouse gas emissions, with intensive livestock farming contributing significantly. Methane emissions from livestock and nitrous oxide from fertilizers exacerbate climate challenges, while monocropping and excessive reliance on animal agriculture drive biodiversity loss. Extreme weather events linked to climate change further threaten crop yields and rural livelihoods, particularly in southern Europe, where staple crop yields could decline by up to 50% by 2050.

The policy brief proposes a transition away from intensive livestock production toward diverse, plant-rich agricultural systems. Key recommendations include:

Diversifying production: Farmers are encouraged to shift focus toward plant-based proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Crops like lentils, beans, and chickpeas offer economic viability while improving soil health and reducing reliance on synthetic inputs. Repurposing infrastructure, such as converting livestock barns for mushroom cultivation, is highlighted as a practical step.

Adopting organic and regenerative practices: Organic farming’s emphasis on biodiversity, crop rotation, and natural pest control offers environmental and economic benefits. Regenerative farming, which integrates ecological functions with productivity, promotes carbon sequestration, soil health, and shorter supply chains.

Building infrastructure and value chains: Developing comprehensive supply chains for plant-based protein crops and enabling farmers to participate in processing activities ensures greater economic returns. Early-stage processing, such as dehulling and cleaning pulses, could boost farm incomes and product quality.

To facilitate these transitions, the brief outlines several actionable policy recommendations:

Reform agricultural subsidies: Redirect EU Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) funds to incentivize sustainable practices. Increasing support for protein crops, fruits, and vegetables while implementing true-cost accounting—factoring environmental and health costs into subsidies—is essential.

Improve access to funding: Establish grants and low-interest loans for farmers adopting sustainable practices. Dedicated funds, like the proposed Agrifood Just Transition Fund, could support infrastructure development and rural economic growth.

Enhance knowledge sharing: Launch peer-to-peer networks and public trials to enable farmers to exchange skills and adopt diversification strategies. Supporting technical assistance and training programs would further ensure successful transitions.

Foster demand for sustainable produce: Introduce minimum requirements for plant-based and organic foods in public procurement policies and reduce VAT on these products to make them more accessible. Such measures would create stable markets for sustainable produce.

The brief draws on successful examples to illustrate its recommendations. In Denmark, the Plant-Based Food Grant supports innovation in plant-based sectors, while Copenhagen’s initiative to achieve 90% organic food in public institutions demonstrates the feasibility of systemic change without increasing costs. These examples highlight the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration and targeted funding.

Implementing these recommendations requires long-term commitment from policymakers and robust engagement with farming communities. Farmers must remain central to this transition, with policies ensuring economic stability, autonomy, and reduced administrative burdens. By prioritizing diversified production and ecosystem health, the EU can create a resilient agricultural sector equipped to meet future challenges.

As the report concludes, “The burdens and costs of diversifying farming systems cannot fall solely on producers. A unified narrative and shared objectives among stakeholders are essential for driving meaningful change.”