European agricultural policy has been in a state of unrest for over a year, with large farmers’ associations opposing the European Commission’s “Green Deal” through various protests. However, there are farmers like Herbert Zetner in Auersthal, Austria, who are embracing regenerative agriculture and organic farming practices to benefit the environment. Zetner has transitioned to organic farming, using natural methods such as homemade hay tea instead of chemicals. Despite the extra effort involved, Zetner believes that organic farming is the way forward and advocates for mandatory practices like leaving fallow land and implementing crop rotation to combat climate change.
Zetner’s efforts align with the recommendations of experts like Professor Franz Essl from the University of Vienna, who emphasize the importance of capturing CO2 in soil through cultivation methods like strip cropping and catch cropping. The EU Commission’s plans to promote organic farming have been criticized for lacking a clear strategy and measurable targets. There is a call for better incentives and financial compensation for farmers like Zetner who are working towards sustainable agriculture.
The EU Commission is urged not to yield to the pressure of conventional farmers but to prioritize sustainable farming practices to address climate change and biodiversity loss. With the need for significant changes in agricultural policy, including wetland restoration and humus formation, the EU has the opportunity to support farmers like Zetner who are leading the way in organic farming and regenerative agriculture.
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