João Ponte says organic farming renders environmental sustainability compatible with higher profitability of farmers
The Regional Secretary for Agriculture highlighted the commitment to organic milk production in the Azores, both from farmers and industries, considering that environmental sustainability is compatible with the improvement of the income of the entire sector.
"This is the right track, and this is the way forward for an agriculture that is increasingly sustainable, developed, innovative and profitable for all its agents," said João Ponte. He spoke on the sidelines of a visit to a dairy farm in the municipality of Angra do Heroísmo, which is in the process of conversion to organic production mode.
Regarding Terceira, there are already eight milk producers from PRONICOL in the process of conversion to the organic production mode. This reveals a strategic vision for the future towards development and a greater promotion of production.
"The Azores have exceptional natural conditions for the production of high-quality milk due to fact that cows graze in open pastures 365 days a year as well as the investment in animal health and welfare," stated João Ponte.
On the other hand, the Regional Secretary challenged industries to be attentive to consumer preferences, invest in innovation, seize the opportunities of environmental sustainability and animal welfare, and to launch premium products that bring added value.
The Regional Secretary stressed that the Azorean Government provides important tools for the development of new products and innovation. In this regard, he reminded that an application period is currently open until December 14 to support innovative projects under PRORURAL+, with a budget of 500 thousand Euros.
João Ponte launched the challenge for industries to apply for this support measure, adding that six notices have been opened under PRORURAL+ in the last 12 months, with an overall allocation of 3.1 million Euros for pilot projects and innovation in agro-industries.
"The investment in innovation will allow industries to be more competitive and, therefore, we will have a more sustainable agriculture and a higher income for the entire sector," said the Regional Secretary.