Climate neutrality should be focus of agriculture says minister

Agriculture Minister Petros Xenophontos on Tuesday said the primary sector in Cyprus and in the EU in general needs to focus its efforts on achieving climate neutrality by 2050.

Speaking on the sidelines of the EU council of agriculture in Stockholm, Xenophontos emphasised the need for an integrated approach regarding both individual policies and funding opportunities in agriculture.

He also said that ensuring environmentally friendly food production remains a primary challenge in today’s world.

“Agriculture needs to achieve social, economic and environmental sustainability while fulfilling international commitments and addressing internal and regional challenges,” he said.

Xenophontos then highlighted the importance of expanding financing options in the sector, as well as promoting bioeconomy, innovation, and new technologies that would contribute to achieving the EU’s long-term goals.

“In addition to that, the EU needs to consider the specificities of each member state and recognise the efforts and steps already taken towards the green transition.

“Providing flexibility to member states can effectively support the development of tools to achieve climate neutrality.”

As part of the council’s programme, EU agriculture ministers visited research centres and educational institutions to explore innovative applications promoting better production chain management and sustainable farming operations.