“Both Commissioners showed genuine interest, were well-informed, and emphasized that agricultural and food production must be allowed to grow. These are encouraging signals, especially coming from decision-makers at the highest level in the EU,” says Alarik Sandrup, Head of Industrial Policy at Lantmännen.
Commissioner for Agriculture Hansen, who has an agricultural background herself, expressed understanding of the challenges facing the sector and stressed that the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) must remain within realistic budget constraints. Topics discussed during the visit included environmental regulations, crop production, the value of pastures, and manure management.
“For a long time, we have felt that the EU has had an overly negative stance on bioenergy and biofuels, despite their critical role in the green transition. However, today’s discussions gave us significantly more positive signals. The Commissioners clearly recognized the benefits of agriculture’s contribution to bioenergy and showed interest in our investments,” Alarik Sandrup continues.
After a tour of the farm, which included a look at animal husbandry and the farm buildings, the visit continued into the surrounding forest, where sustainable, active forestry was highlighted. The day concluded with each of the three guests planting a pine tree – a symbol of optimism for the future and the growth of green industries.
For more information, please contact:
Lantmännen's Press Office
Tel: +46 10 556 88 00
E-mail: press@lantmannen.com