Neova issued a statement on the National Food Strategy 2040 – focusing on a sustainable domestic raw material economy
Neova has issued a statement on the National Food Strategy 2040, which is currently being prepared. The statement emphasises that the basis of a sustainable and profitable food system lies in domestic raw materials, growing media and solutions that support animal welfare.
According to Neova, the strategy correctly identifies the uneven distribution of value added in the food chain and the need to strengthen the position of primary production and processing. At the same time, it is important to take into account the support structures of the entire food chain – such as growing substrates, soil improvement and solutions that support animal welfare – that enable the profitability and security of supply of domestic food production.
Peat and the products processed from it form an important part of these structures. Horticultural peat is still a key material in professional cultivation, seedling production and animal production. The statement emphasises that peat and its processed products must be treated equally in relation to other raw materials and their climate and environmental impacts must be examined as a whole.
From the point of view of security of supply, horticultural peat and bedding peat are part of national crisis preparedness. Without them, domestic greenhouse and seedling production cannot function on the current scale. The statement states that peat and its processed products should be identified as critical raw materials, the availability of which secures the continuity of food production even in emergency conditions.
Neova also highlights the importance of biostimulants, soil improvers and activated carbon refined from peat as part of the circular economy and low-emission solutions. The development and export of these products will strengthen Finland’s competitiveness and the renewal of the food system.
With regard to animal welfare, Neova points out that peat-based bedding supports animal health and reduces the risk of illness by binding moisture and ammonia and improving the hygiene of farms. A healthy animal needs less medication, which supports responsible and health-safe production.
From an environmental perspective, Neova emphasises that the use of peat can be implemented in a controlled and responsible manner. The secondary use of production as wetlands and carbon sequestration areas supports biodiversity and climate goals.
The statement also emphasises the importance of long-term and predictable regulation. The development of a sustainable food system requires decision-making that supports investments in the green transition and strengthens cooperation between companies, research institutes and administration.
A sustainable and vibrant food system needs strong roots – domestic raw materials, functional support structures and innovative, responsible solutions.
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