20+ Groups Demand Radical Shift in Agriculture to Save Biodiversity

Over 20 associations from organic farming, nature conservation, and animal welfare have joined forces to push for urgent changes in agriculture. Their new 12-point plan calls for a complete shift in how food is produced, warning that delays will worsen biodiversity loss and climate damage. The groups insist the federal government must follow the advice of the Future Commission on Agriculture (ZKL). Their proposals cover a wide range of reforms, from cutting pesticide and fertiliser use to improving water retention in soils. A key demand is restructuring the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to better support sustainable practices.

The plan also pushes for stronger organic farming, clearer labels on animal products, and financial support for farmers transitioning away from intensive livestock systems. Climate protection measures and stricter rules on genetic engineering are included, alongside calls for fairer prices and a broader overhaul of food policy. According to the associations, the current system is failing to address biodiversity collapse, climate breakdown, and the challenges of shifting livestock farming. They argue that without immediate action, these problems will only deepen.

The 12-point plan sets out concrete steps for a more sustainable agricultural system. If adopted, it would reshape farming policies, reduce environmental harm, and support farmers through the transition. The next move now rests with the government to respond to these demands.