Green group urges tax on pesticides
The environmental organsisation, Pro Natura, has called for far-reaching reforms to make Swiss farmers work with more ecologically-friendly methods.
The group said the current agriculture policy was a threat to biodiversity and failed to encourage farmers to save energy.
Pro Natura proposes a tax on artificial fertilisers and pesticides as well as cuts in subsidies for cattle farmers.
The main Farmers Association is to present its proposals next week.
The government has submitted its plans for agricultural reform for the period 2014-2017 to political parties and institutions. The plans are aimed at boosting production, sustainability and the country’s competitive edge.
The programme includes more than SFr11 billion ($13.2 billion) in direct subsidies.
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