27. #EU2023SE : Sweden: a portrait of agricultural diversity

What do you know about Swedish agriculture? It’s a question Food for Europe is asking in this edition of the programme, following the country’s assumption of the revolving presidency of the Council of the European Union. The picture we paint is one of contrasts, shaped by geology, climate and sustainability. In the north, in Norrbotten where the climate is harsh and the soils unpromising, Hulda Wirsen and Johan Liljebäck, a young couple who farm dairy cattle, tell us about the transformations they’re among ro their farm, their commitment to sustainability and their aspirations for the future. They also share with us their concerns related to the growing number of abandoned farms in their area, and the consequences for biodiversity. In the south, in the fertile plains of Scania, Hans Ramel, a farmer who heads the local farmers’ association, informs us about the effects of climate change on his production and his belief in the need to trust farmers to promote more environmentally friendly practices in the sector. Our studio guest is Lars Olsson, agriculture coordinator of the Swedish presidency of the Council, who gives us an overview of the strengths of farming in Sweden and the challenges it faces. He also shares with us the priorities of the Swedish strategic plan in the context of the EU Common Agricultural Policy.