Deluge, then drought: the double challenge for farmers in Greece

In Greece, farmers are contending with the aftermath of severe weather conditions, alternating between drought and flooding, which has significantly impacted agricultural productivity, particularly in the Thessaly region, known as the country’s breadbasket. Farmers, including Achilleas Gerotolios from the village of Sotirio, face the dilemma of unharvested crops and damaged infrastructure due to these extreme weather events. The situation is exacerbated by the economic strain of rising operational costs against stagnant crop prices.

September 2023 saw Storms Daniel and Elias inundate 35,000 acres of agricultural land, affecting approximately 30,000 farmers. These events highlight the broader challenge of climate change and its implications for European agriculture. The Greek government and the European Commission have offered financial support for recovery, yet local farmers like Gerotolios express concerns over the sufficiency and sustainability of such measures.

Water management is a critical issue, with agriculture accounting for 86% of Greece’s water consumption. Experts advocate for improved infrastructure and practices, including the construction of small dams and the adoption of less water-intensive crops, to mitigate the impact of droughts and floods. However, proposals to shift away from traditional crops like cotton have met resistance from the farming community.

The broader context of climate change, with its increased frequency of extreme weather events, poses a significant challenge to Greek agriculture. Solutions require a multifaceted approach, addressing both immediate recovery needs and long-term sustainability through better water management, crop selection, and infrastructure investment. As farmers like Gerotolios contemplate their future in agriculture, the need for comprehensive support and adaptation strategies becomes increasingly apparent.

Source: Ekathimerini