Επ.2: ΒΙΩΣΙΜΗ ΓΕΩΡΓΙΑ, ΒΙΩΣΙΜΟΣ ΠΛΑΝΗΤΗΣ | Προστασία Αγροτικής Παραγωγής, Μετριασμός και Προσαρμογή

Summary

This video script discusses the challenges and solutions for Greek agriculture in the face of climate change. Key issues such as water scarcity, extreme weather, and soil erosion are highlighted, with a focus on sustainable practices like moderating climate footprints, adapting to new conditions, and utilizing technology for climate resilience. Innovative solutions like anti-hail nets, airborne weather protection, and the use of resilient crop varieties are explored. The importance of eco-friendly farming practices and government support, as well as the role of farmers in reducing emissions and adopting green energy, is emphasized. Ultimately, it calls for a transformation towards intelligent, sustainable farming for the future.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Greek agricultural sector faces significant challenges due to climate change, including water scarcity, desertification risks, and extreme weather events.
• 😀 The main areas at risk in Greece are Eastern Greece, Thessalia, Eastern Mainland, and Eastern Peloponnese, where water shortages are a growing concern.
• 😀 Farmers are encouraged to adapt to these challenges by moderating their climate footprint and using new techniques and technology to protect their crops.
• 😀 Solutions to mitigate climate change impacts include airborne anti-hail protection, anti-hail nets, and anti-rain covers, with state-funded subsidies to support their implementation.
• 😀 New crop varieties resistant to higher temperatures and droughts are essential for future farming success, and Greece's diverse agricultural biodiversity offers opportunities for adaptation.
• 😀 Sustainable agricultural techniques, such as reducing soil erosion, saving water, and using renewable energy sources, can lower production costs and help farmers mitigate climate change.
• 😀 Piraeus Bank offers products and services to support farmers in transitioning to more sustainable practices, including financing for renewable energy, intelligent farming, and eco-friendly techniques.
• 😀 Greece's agricultural products must acquire an ecological identity, and consumers increasingly demand certified, environmentally sustainable products.
• 😀 Agroforestry systems, which promote biodiversity and pollination, are crucial for addressing production problems and mitigating climate change impacts.
• 😀 The EU's new Green Deal and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) emphasize environmentally friendly farming practices, offering financial incentives for farmers to adopt sustainable methods, such as crop rotation and using durable varieties.

Q & A

What are the main climate-related challenges facing Greek agriculture today?

Greek agriculture faces several challenges, including water scarcity due to prolonged droughts, the risk of desertification by the end of the century, and extreme weather events. Key areas affected by water shortages include Eastern Greece, Thessalia, Eastern Mainland, and Eastern Peloponnese.

How is Greek agriculture adapting to climate change?

Greek agriculture is adapting by focusing on moderation and adaptation. This includes using science and technology to improve production resilience, adopting water-saving techniques, and cultivating varieties resistant to heat and drought.

What role does technology play in protecting Greek crops from extreme weather conditions?

Technology plays a crucial role in protecting crops. For instance, airborne anti-hail protection systems use aircraft to disperse silver iodide into clouds, converting hail into rain. Anti-hail nets and anti-rain covers are also used to protect crops from weather-related damage.

How are new crop varieties helping Greek farmers deal with climate change?

New crop varieties, such as drought-resistant olive trees and heat-tolerant strains of other crops, help farmers cope with increased temperatures and extended periods of drought, making their production more resilient to climate extremes.

What are some sustainable farming techniques that can help mitigate climate change in Greece?

Sustainable farming techniques in Greece include reducing soil erosion, saving water, using solar energy for drying crops, and minimizing the use of pesticides and fertilizers. These practices reduce the overall environmental impact of agriculture.

Why is it important for Greek farmers to receive incentives to adopt sustainable practices?

Incentives are important because they encourage farmers to implement new practices that may initially be costly or complex. These incentives can help mitigate the financial risks associated with adapting to climate change, ensuring the long-term viability of farming in Greece.

How is Piraeus Bank supporting farmers in adapting to climate change?

Piraeus Bank supports farmers by offering products and services that reduce carbon emissions, water consumption, and the use of harmful chemicals. The bank also provides funding for renewable energy projects, precision agriculture, and sustainable farming practices.

What is the role of biodiversity in sustainable agriculture in Greece?

Biodiversity plays a critical role in sustainable agriculture by providing ecosystem services like pollination. Agroforestry systems, which combine crops with forest or fruit trees, enhance biodiversity, prevent soil erosion, and increase carbon sequestration, making farming more resilient to climate change.

How are energy crops and agro-voltaic systems contributing to sustainable farming in Greece?

Energy crops, such as rapeseed and sunflowers, can be used to produce biodiesel, which provides additional income for farmers. Agro-voltaic systems, which combine agriculture with solar power generation, help reduce energy costs for farmers and lower the carbon footprint of farming operations.

What is the Green Deal, and how does it impact Greek farmers?

The Green Deal, part of the EU's strategy to promote sustainable agriculture, encourages farmers to adopt environmentally friendly practices. It includes financial incentives for farmers who implement crop rotation, maintain permanent pastures, and use sustainable crop varieties. These practices help mitigate climate change and enhance biodiversity.