In a new attempt to make themselves heard in the political debate, the party Alternativet has launched a sub-goal for Danish agriculture, aimed at ensuring that Denmark only produces the meat that Danes themselves can consume. This initiative was presented by the party’s political leader, Franciska Rosenkilde, during their national convention in Odense. Alternativet, which has long fought for greater influence and support, sees this sub-goal as a more tangible and realistic approach to their overall vision of a more sustainable agriculture. The party proposes to halve animal production within the next four years, which they believe will free up large areas for nature and biodiversity. Franciska Rosenkilde emphasized during her speech that a restructuring of agriculture is not just a dream, but a necessity to achieve a more sustainable future. “It starts with us converting large parts of agriculture,” she said, adding that the proposal will release one million hectares to citizens by 2030, equivalent to an area the size of Zealand and Funen. In addition to reducing meat production, Alternativet’s proposal also includes suggestions to invest 50 billion kroner in the rebuilding of rural areas and to give local residents more influence on local development.
The party, which is teetering on the electoral threshold, hopes with this new initiative to appeal to both the SF and Enhedslisten parties and attract more voters. Franciska Rosenkilde emphasizes the importance of making political decisions that respect the planet’s limits and promote people’s well-being. “It may seem abstract, but it is crucial for the future, our planet, and the next generations, that we not only live off nature, but with nature,” she said, while also dismissing the notion that it is too ambitious to create such a major change in such a short time, as it is necessary for the sake of the climate. With this new initiative, Alternativet hopes to generate momentum and support for their visions of the future, even though they feel unheard by the current government.