EU agriculture ministers explore new technologies to address food security and climate change
EU agriculture ministers gather in Cordoba to explore new technologies as key drivers for food security, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture, emphasizing responsible adoption and consumer awareness
The informal meeting of EU agriculture ministers in Cordoba, Spain, under the Spanish presidency of the Council of the EU, centered on harnessing new technologies to address food security, combat climate change, and enhance profitability in the agricultural sector.
This article delves into the key discussions and priorities from the meeting.
Food Security: a global challenge
Photo: UE
The meeting highlighted the global challenge of food security, a top priority for the Spanish presidency. With the world’s population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, ensuring a consistent supply of safe, nutritious, and high-quality food is paramount.
The EU, as the world’s largest food producer, has a significant role to play in addressing this challenge, aligning with the UN’s “zero hunger” goal.
Climate change: an urgent concern
Climate change and its impact on agriculture took center stage at the meeting.
Rising temperatures and extreme weather events, especially droughts, pose significant threats to global food production. European decision-makers discussed strategies for adapting to these challenges, emphasizing the need for innovative technologies to optimize water resources and mitigate the effects of lower rainfall.
New Genomic Techniques (NTGs)
A crucial topic of discussion was the application of new genomic techniques (NTGs) in breeding resilient and resistant plant varieties rapidly and precisely.
NTGs offer the potential to enhance food production sustainability, address climate change challenges, and reduce the use of plant protection products and fertilizers. The European Commission presented a proposal on NTGs, sparking transparent debates among decision-makers to ensure responsible and sustainable adoption.
Transparency and consumer information
Photo: UE
Ministers emphasized the importance of transparency and consumer information regarding technological solutions to achieve sustainability.
Striking a balance between innovation and consumer awareness was a key consideration, with a focus on avoiding negative consequences, especially for organic farming practices.
Sustainable agriculture and profitability
The meeting also addressed the critical issue of agricultural sustainability and profitability. Ensuring the well-being of rural workers and farmers is integral to achieving agricultural sustainability.
Ministers discussed options to boost agricultural productivity, including providing financial mechanisms for farmers to invest in new technologies and training.
EU funds from the Horizon Europe program and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) strategic plans were identified as key resources to drive innovation and digital transformation in agriculture.