According to the UK Green Party website the Green Party will try to achieve the following if they gain power at the 2010 general election:
AG611
a) Transfer research funding to organic growing, permaculture, agroforestry, other sustainable methods of growing and to crops which can act as substitutes for the use of non-renewable resources (e.g. hemp). Phase out research into non-sustainable agriculture.
b) Fund research into holistic, sustainable designs for living so that balances can be found between the various aspects of growing for human needs and maintaining the planet.
c) Develop small scale, appropriate farm technology and machinery which will not damage the soil.
d) Reinstate funding for the Soil Survey and link into the survey of the Institute of Terrestrial Ecology. Provide funding for seed banks/libraries and the conservation of seed varieties.
e) Research and develop ways of returning all biodegradable human and animal waste to the soil to act as nutrients and soil improvers.
f) Set up small scale research and demonstration centres and implement the recommendations of research.
Agriculture Education
AG612
1. Include benign methods of cultivation, practical experience of growing and healthy nutrition as curriculum options in all general educational establishments.
2. Encourage and support educational links between schools and farms respecting the principles of sustainability.
3. In agricultural education and advice establishments give immediate priority to sustainable production methods.
4. Give support and advice to those currently employed in intensive agriculture so that they can learn appropriate new skills.
I would be interested to hear both positive and negative views on UK Green Party’s Agriculture Research, Development and Education policies in the comments below?