In a new report from the Climate Council (Klimarådet), which serves as an advisor to the Danish government on climate issues, it is recommended that specific areas in Denmark be designated to promote biodiversity. The report suggests that agriculture should occupy a smaller physical part of the landscape, although this does not necessarily mean that the agricultural sector’s contribution to the economy should be reduced. The Climate Council points out that a large part of the Danish landscape is currently used for agriculture, which does not benefit biodiversity or water quality. Therefore, the council proposes that greater consideration should be given to climate, biodiversity, and water areas in future land use. This can be achieved, for example, by designating contiguous areas that have special value for nature and wildlife.
According to the report, a conversion of agricultural areas to areas that promote biodiversity and improve water quality would cost around 2.8 billion Danish kroner annually in terms of lost income from food and feed production. In return, it would reduce Denmark’s CO2 emissions by almost seven million tons annually. The Danish Society for Nature Conservation (Danmarks Naturfredningsforening) has expressed support for the Climate Council’s recommendations. The president of the society, Maria Reumert Gjerding, states that the report clearly shows that it is possible for Denmark to meet international goals to stop the loss of biodiversity through increased protection of nature. She adds that a greater focus on nature could significantly contribute to CO2 savings and thus be good news for both the climate and nature.
The government and various organizations are currently discussing a CO2 tax on agriculture, which is intended to promote a more sustainable land use. The Climate Council believes that there are no barriers to quickly designing and implementing such a tax, which can accelerate a structural shift towards less feed production and more afforestation. The Climate Council’s report emphasizes the importance of taking action now to ensure a sustainable future where Denmark both protects its nature and meets its climate goals.