Farmers open their courtyards: dialogue between climate and animal activists!

Farmers open their courtyards: dialogue between climate and animal activists!

In a remarkable initiative, farmers and environmental activists in Germany decided to bridge the gap between agriculture and climate protection. The alliance "We are fed up" has launched an exciting campaign that brings farmers and activists to a table. Around 30 farmers open their courtyards for animal welfare and climate protection activists from Thursday to Sunday, i.e. until June 22nd. This opportunity not only brings more understanding of the challenges of farmers, but also promotes cooperation in times when climatic changes and rising food prices become a daily reality for many.

In Brandenburg, four companies from Müncheberg, Potsdam and Märkisch Luch take part. The farmers open their doors and enable activists to experience the reality of agricultural practice up close and work for two days. This initiative could play an important role in the dialogue between the different stakeholders and reduce prejudices. Reports on animal welfare in animal husbandry have regularly led to protests in the past, but now the protagonists are trying to communicate at eye level. According to n-tv this is particularly remarkable, as activists from nature conservation associations and greenpeace participate.

Events on weekends

An example of the successful dialogue can be found at the Schwalbennest Ökobauerhof in East Brandenburg, where Rahel Böhme and Josefa Voigt immerse themselves in the world of sustainable agriculture. The farm owner Martina Bresse and her family and employees manage around 50 hectares, holds over 80 sheep and leads a circular economy that is particularly sustainable. Her philosophy that only as many animals are kept as can be fed is reflected in daily practice. "We use the crap of our animals as a fertilizer and rely on an agrocological extension," explains Brressel, emphasizing that the circular economy is of great importance. Also taz reports on the challenges that arise from a hectare-oriented conveying system that favors large companies and disadvantaged smaller, ecological farms.

A look into the future

The discussion about the future of ecological agriculture shows that political reforms are essential. "The entry into agriculture is increasingly difficult by rising soil prices," Böhme notes, pointing out the necessity that politics and society are looking for solutions together. Investors who buy arable land as return objects contribute to further shortage of space for young farmers. This development ensures uncertainty and startles young people who want to get into agriculture. It remains to be seen whether initiatives such as that of "We are fed up" can help to initiate an agricultural turn that is more necessary than ever.