Executive Vice-President Timmermans and Commissioner Sinkevičius addressed the media today to discuss the European Commission’s proposals for a more sustainable use of plant and soil natural resources. The proposals aim to complement the climate and biodiversity objectives set out in the Fit for 55 package and the Biodiversity Framework.
Executive Vice-President Timmermans highlighted the interconnection between climate and nature, emphasizing the need to address the climate crisis while protecting and restoring nature. He pointed to recent extreme weather events and their clear links to climate change, underscoring the urgency of taking action.
The proposals focus on improving soil health and enhancing the resilience of forests and plant species. Currently, only about one-third of European soils are healthy, facing challenges such as droughts, erosion, and the use of chemical pesticides. Forests, too, are struggling due to climate change and threats like the bark beetle.
The Commission’s proposal on soil health offers several benefits, including increased carbon absorption, income opportunities for farmers through carbon farming, and improved water retention to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Furthermore, the Commission highlighted the importance of replacing harmful chemicals with sustainable alternatives. Proposals on new genomic techniques and reproductive materials provide solutions for developing more resilient plants that require fewer pesticides and are better adapted to climate extremes.
The reform of legislation on plant and forest reproductive material aims to provide farmers with access to diverse, high-quality, and climate-resilient seeds. Sustainability requirements will be implemented for all plant reproductive material, including provisions for varieties tolerant to herbicides to ensure environmental protection.
Regarding new genomic techniques, a clear distinction will be made between plants that could have been developed conventionally and those that require an authorization process similar to genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The proposal ensures transparency and choice for farmers while maintaining high standards of protection for health and the environment.
The Commission’s reply to the Council’s request for additional information on the sustainable use of pesticides highlights alternative approaches and the proposal to cut the use and risk of chemical pesticides in half, contributing to food and feed security.
Addressing the issue of food waste, the Commission proposed ambitious targets for Member States to reduce food waste by 10% in processing and manufacturing and 30% in retail, restaurants, food services, and households by 2030. The aim is to tackle food waste, which is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and poses challenges in a world where hunger persists.
In conclusion, the Commission’s proposals seek to promote a more sustainable use of plant and soil resources, safeguarding nature, addressing climate challenges, and reducing food waste. The Commission emphasized the importance of scientific evidence and a transparent process in implementing these proposals and working towards a greener and more resilient Europe.
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/SPEECH_23_3706