As Europe’s farmers face multiple threats – climate change, financial pressures, changing consumer demands, and shifting policy – many are wondering: what does a viable, sustainable path forward look like?
In the latest episode of the New Food Hub Podcast by ProVeg International, host Gemma Tadman dives into that question with Simon Kraemer, a regenerative agriculture expert working with farmers across Europe through the European Alliance for Regenerative Agriculture. Their conversation explores the complex landscape of diversification – what it means in practice, how it’s being implemented, and why it’s critical for the future of farming.
Despite the challenging agricultural landscape, Simon explains that farmers are motivated and excited by the concept of ‘sustainability’ and with this, diversifying to growing plant proteins or adopting regenerative methods.
“We have farmers super excited for growing the resilience of their enterprises, reducing harmful impacts on the environment, increasing the positive impacts on the environment, and for producing really healthy and sufficient food for all,” Simon says. “Because in the end, that’s what farmers are super motivated by, and, in our understanding of ‘sustainability’ as core part of the work we ought to do.”
Although diversification can unlock resilience and value, Simon explains that farmers need a lot of upfront support, especially when it comes to cost. “Cost is a big barrier for diversification,” he says. “And we have to be very aware that if we say costs, it’s not only investment costs for new seeds or something I would need to diversify because I don’t have the managing infrastructure, but it’s also opportunity costs.”
Simon continues: “Farmers in Europe are EUR 550 billion in debt. They are suffocating under debt payments, as many of our fellow citizens are, which makes it very complicated to act. If they make a tiny mistake and get down on the rate to repay [their debt], they might lose the heritage of their family.”
But Simon is optimistic: “Our farming pioneers give me hope for the future of farming!” he explains.
Episode highlights
This episode is a must-listen for anyone working in food, farming, policy, or plant-based innovation. You’ll hear:
- The current state of European agriculture and how farmers are adapting.
- What’s driving farmer interest in sustainability – and the challenges they face.
- The business case for diversification and what farmers need to make it work.
- Practical on-farm actions for plant-based and regenerative diversification.
- Common misconceptions and barriers around diversification.
- How regenerative practices can support plant-based ingredient production and unlock new market opportunities.
- The role of businesses, organizations, and policymakers in supporting farmers.
Listen to the full conversation on ProVeg’s New Food Hub to learn how food landscapes can evolve – with farmers at the centre of change. For more support, get in touch with ProVeg’s experts at [email protected].
