EU renewables compatible with food production, nature protection – and maybe humans

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Euractiv or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: The European Environmental Bureau (EEB) released a report indicating that the EU's onshore wind and solar energy needs can be met without compromising food production or nature protection
• This balance, however, relies heavily on the decisions made at individual and political levels

🔭 The context: The report, "Land For Renewables," suggests that using just 2.2% of the EU's land could achieve net-zero emissions and a 100% renewable power system by 2040
• It highlights the potential for integrating agriculture with renewable energy projects, even on land considered degraded or underutilized

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Balancing land use for renewable energy, agriculture, and nature conservation is crucial for achieving climate goals without harming food security or biodiversity

⏭️ What's next: The report emphasizes the need for comprehensive and integrated policies to ensure sufficient renewable capacity is developed
• It also notes potential challenges, such as local opposition and the need for lifestyle changes to reduce overall energy demand

💬 One quote: “There is no reason to believe renewables will be an obstacle to food production and nature restoration,” said Cosimo Tansini, the report's lead author

📈 One stat: The report estimates that around 2.2% of the EU’s land is sufficient for wind and solar installations to reach climate targets

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