Sweden's nature plan risks food self-sufficiency, critics warn

A Swedish opinion piece published in Dagens Nyheter criticizes the nation's proposed plan for nature restoration, arguing it will undermine food security and self-sufficiency. The plan, developed to comply with the EU's Nature Restoration Law, aims to restore natural habitats and includes goals for ecological food production.

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For to achieve all the wonderful things in Sweden's plan for nature restoration, two goals for ecological production are proposed, with the argument that it strengthens preparedness. But that is a lie.

However, the authors, representing Swedish food producers, assert that the plan's focus on extensive farming and reduced pesticide use will lead to less domestic food production. They challenge the notion that ecological farming is inherently better for preparedness, stating it still relies on external resources like fertilizer and fuel. The piece suggests that the proposed changes will necessitate greater food imports, echoing historical periods when similar agricultural practices led to emigration.

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The proposal will lead to increased imports of food and worse self-sufficiency.

The plan involves significant costs, estimated at 11 billion kronor annually, on top of existing 9 billion kronor investments. Critics argue that the current proposal will likely see existing agricultural support redirected towards more extensive production methods. The authors express concern that this shift, while aiming for ecological balance, neglects the fundamental need to feed the population, potentially leading to a "Bullerby dream" scenario that ignores the realities of food production.

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The last time we farmed food like this, Swedes emigrated to the USA.