With Europe slowly getting back on track after the COVID-19 crisis, it is high time it moved from words to action and implemented the Farm to Fork strategy. The EESC strongly advocates supporting the transformation of Europe's food systems so that they become more environmentally, economically and socially sustainable. It also stresses that cooperation (rather than competition) among food chain operators is essential to foster a more resilient and inclusive food system, ensuring a fair share for all.

The European Union celebrated its first "organic day" on 23 September 2021 and the EESC has just adopted opinions on the Action Plan for the development of EU organic production and Towards a Fair Food Supply Chain.

Great opportunities are coming up for decision-makers to bring about the transformations needed. We are at a critical point for implementing a comprehensive food policy.

From 8.5% to 25% of agricultural land for organic farming in the EU: an ambitious target

As part of the European Green Deal, the Commission has set a target for organic production in the EU under the Farm to Fork Strategy and the Biodiversity Strategy: at least 25% of agricultural land is to be farmed organically by 2030.

"Organic farming has a role to play in achieving the objectives of the European Green Deal. A market-oriented approach to further increase consumer demand and confidence in organic products will be the key," said Andreas Thurner, rapporteur for the EESC opinion on organic production.

The EESC nevertheless stresses the need for sufficient financial resources to ensure that the benefits of this major conversion to organic farming are enjoyed by all EU citizens. (mr)