- New Agriculturist focuses on neglected species.
- Chocolate, wine… Fellow could have himself a pretty good weekend in Vegas with that lot.
- Irish evaluate biodiversity, apparently ignore agriculture.
- Sasa schemes to save Scottish landraces.
- The Indian Seed and Patent Acts dissected.
The Irish report might not directly highlight the value of agricultural biodiversity but I think there would be much in it that could be assigned to an agricultural context or extrapolated to provide some sort of value. Putting a value on the earhtworm is in some way putting a value on agricultural biodiversity. Haven’t read the report but I am sure there is much in it which actually applies to agriculture – earthworms, pollinators etc.
But what is the problem. Putting a value on agricultural biodiversity? I think not. Maybe creating awareness of the importance of agricultural biodiversity is the problem. Can we actually do this in the way that an IPPC or an Al Gore can for climate change? I am sure that we can, but how can we do this effectively so that reports like this are more pro-active in assigning a value to agricultural biodiversity.
Who can be our ‘champion’ when it comes to raising the profile of agricultural biodiversity. Funnily, the report mentions the former Irish Prime Minister, Bertie Ahearn. Tony Blair is on record as saying in his recent visit to the Dail as he placed his hand on Bertie’s shoulder, ‘That this man could do anything’. Anybody who can bring Ian Paisley to where he is today deserves such an accolade. So maybe Bertie is the man, the champion, the next Al gore of agricultural biodiversity. Maybe it’s Ian Paisley, after all he demonstrated great patronage to Ulster farmers. Seriously though these men, despite their shortcomings, were involved in great attitudinal and behavioural change. Who might do the same for ag biodiversity.
Who can be a champion for agbiodiversity? I think the Agricultural Biodiversity Webblog should run another competition to find out. Select 5 possible candidates and run a vote!
I like my silhouette!