Legislation is underway to permit larger greenhouses and enhance subsidies for local farmers in Luxembourg. The sector supports the proposal but stresses the need for appropriate conditions to ensure its success.
The Kirsch family, long-time vegetable cultivators near Luxembourg City, may see effects from this legislation. Niki Kirsch, leading the family business, views the discussions positively. The government has earmarked €20 million for projects costing between €1 million and €12 million. However, Mouveco, an environmental group, fears the funds might favor agribusiness over small farmers.
Kirsch counters Mouveco's concerns, asserting: "Absolutely not, absolutely not!" He argues the legislation targets smaller producers who face high setup costs. "If a large-scale company wanted to set up, they wouldn't even need agricultural subsidies," Kirsch adds.
Current greenhouse size restrictions, capped at 250 square meters, are seen as a barrier. Larger greenhouses could lower costs and offer more opportunities for new entrants. Kirsch notes, "Graduates must absolutely gain practical experience by working on different farms to develop their knowledge beyond what they learn in school."
Despite challenges in growing certain vegetables like peppers and tomatoes, up to 30% of the vegetables consumed could soon be locally produced. Water consumption concerns persist, but Kirsch explains: "We have designed our greenhouses with drainage systems. All the rainwater flows underground into a 3,000-cubic-metre storage tank."
Kirsch is open to organic farming but doubts 100% organic production due to cost constraints, seeing limited market potential for organic vegetables.
Source: RTL Today