Meeting on European livestock farming in Brussels
At the centre of the round table, organised by Farm Europe, was the theme of sustainability (economic, social and environmental) of European livestock production as a fundamental lever for an ecological transition of food production systems .
The debate highlighted that aspects such as health, biodiversity, climate and environmental impacts and benefits, economic potential and social fabric are closely linked to livestock activities and must be fully integrated into European policies for a sustainable future of Europe. The sector is, however, at the centre of public debate and faces complex challenges to safeguard its economic viability, while adapting to growing social and environmental needs.
The relationship between Europeans and meat was highlighted through the reasons that drive them to purchase the product. Among the main ones, the perception that meat is an essential food for a healthy diet and the pleasure of eating it. In addition, the emphasis was placed on real consumption, in Europe in line with the recommendations of nutritionists and public health organizations.
On production dynamics it was highlighted that the demand for products of animal origin remains strong even if there is a decrease in production especially in the bovine sector, with the consequence of resorting to imports. The European poultry sector is the only sector for which there is a growing production .
Profitability, carbon emissions and storage, proper management of natural resources and protection of biodiversity have been framed as the challenges that livestock farming must face . For a transition to more resilient farming systems, the need for investments in animal welfare and to reduce dependence on the import of raw materials for feed (especially protein) has been highlighted for the poultry sector .
The European policies of this mandate should recognize the important role that farmers play in food sovereignty , nutrition and ecological transition . The consumer must also do his part by paying a higher price for more sustainable products but it was also underlined that, in the event of a crisis such as the one generated by the Covid-19 pandemic or the conflict in Ukraine, which inevitably lead to product prices rising, a large part of European consumers would not be able to absorb the increase in the cost of products .
To address these challenges, future European policies must be based on scientific evidence and take into account the diversity of European farming systems , and ensure investment in research and innovation, necessary to develop new technologies and increasingly sustainable agricultural practices, involving breeders and the food industry.
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