ResearchFarmer-led climate and environmental action in the European Union
Source: https://www.bio.uni-heidelberg.de/en/newsroom/farmer-led-climate-and-environmental-action-in-the-european-union Parent: https://www.bio.uni-heidelberg.de/en/news
Research Farmer-led climate and environmental action in the European Union
Direct communication and education are crucial for increasing public acceptance of farmer-led climate and environmental action
A European Union study found that the public's perception of farmers' responsibility for climate action is linked to their view of agriculture's role in climate change. An interdisciplinary research team at Heidelberg University headed by Prof. Dr. Jale Tosun (Political Sciences) and Prof. Dr. Marcus A Koch (Centre for Organismal Studies) showed that individuals who see agriculture as a cause are more likely to hold farmers responsible. Political ideology also plays a role, with left-leaning individuals more likely to attribute responsibility. However, a separate analysis of EU agricultural policy suggests a disconnect, as policy frameworks do not fully align with environmental goals, indicating that a more integrated and effective approach is needed to support farmers in their transition to sustainable practices. Moreover, farmers who accept the reality of climate change but do not believe human activities cause it may be more willing to adapt to its impacts rather than implement mitigation measures.
The interdisciplinary research is also part of the research network “Restoring Nature: implications for biodiversity, food systems and nutrition status”
- Link to the paper
- Research network “Restoring Nature: implications for biodiversity, food systems and nutrition status”
- AG Koch
Symbolic picture agriculture | copyright Marcus Koch