Adaptability, obstacles and lack of appreciation: results of climate resilience research on agriculture in Central Germany

As part of the Studium Fundamentale "Students meet farmers: How can climate resilience succeed in Central German agriculture?", 20 students presented their findings from 10 farm visits in the region to a group of experts and guests. During the farm visits, the students gained impressive insights into regional agricultural practices.

The research results focus on three main aspects of resilience:

1. Adaptability of agriculture to climate change: Farmers in the region have already developed remarkable adaptation strategies to climate change. They are continuously making decisions to adapt cultivation methods, such as sowing times, soil treatment and the implementation of technical solutions such as irrigation systems.
2. Economic resilience and political and bureaucratic obstacles: Farmers face considerable economic challenges. Market structures and rising operating costs are putting a strain on financial resilience. Strategies such as direct marketing and renewable energies are not only optional, but often essential measures to stabilise income. Farmers' efforts are hampered by political and bureaucratic obstacles that make it difficult for them to adapt.
3. Psychological resilience and social significance: Despite low incomes, long working days and the feeling of often being misunderstood, farmers are proud of their work and emphasised the lack of recognition and appreciation for local products. As the ones feeding the country, they see themselves as playing a crucial role in society, especially in challenging times due to climate change, demographic change and global uncertainties.

Transdisciplinary dialogue as the key to success

The seminar not only offered insights, but also impressively demonstrated how the dialogue between university and other areas of society works and is an enrichment for all involved. This dialogue is essential to reduce the gap between urban and rural areas and to promote better understanding, especially in times of increasing social tensions and information distortions. The seminar also makes it clear that solutions emerge in practice through direct contact and dialogue.

Commitment and thanks

Special thanks go to the committed students and farmers who played a central role and opened their doors to the students, making the project possible in the first place. The Thüringer Bauernverband e.V., the Thüringer Ökoherz e.V. and the Gesellschaft für konservierende Bodenbearbeitung were important partners in the project.