The European Union wants more organic and fewer chemicals in its fields by 2030. Among other things, the new Plant Protection Products Regulation even provides for a complete ban on all spraying in sensitive areas. “On the one hand, this is an urban area, next to playgrounds, where it is understandable and important that no more crop protection is applied here,” says farmer and MEP Alexander Bernhuber in the krone.tv conversation with Jana Pasching. But the Natura 2000 areas, such as the Wachau, would also fall under this criterion. “Agriculture is productive here. The fact that crop protection can no longer be used here, be it organic or conventional, would mean the end for many companies,” warns Bernhuber.
According to the MEP, the new Plant Protection Products Regulation contains passages that cannot be accepted as such. “We hope this will change.” There are already major protests in large parts of Europe. As far as the negotiations are concerned, we are only at the beginning. A result is expected in 2024.
Austria’s food supply is well positioned despite the war in Ukraine and disrupted supply chains. In countries like Africa it is worse. However, the increased energy prices hit farmers in Austria hard. The development here is worrying, says Bernhuber. Vegetable cultivation, which normally takes place in greenhouses in winter, will no longer exist.
Borealis: “Doesn’t want further market concentration”
With the planned sale of the OMV subsidiary Borealis to the Czech Agrofert group but one enters into a new dependence. “The deal is not finalized yet, we are trying to use all possible legal steps. If we are talking about guaranteeing security of supply in the individual Member States, on the other hand, we cannot wish for further market concentration.”
We explain what everyone is thinking about right now: the latest news conversations with politicians and experts.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
