Climate change should be part of the curriculum.
In a newsletter in December, Helmy Abouleish called for the commitment to climate change. In preparation for COP27 in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, next year, the Biodynamic Federation will work to commit the agricultural sector to reduce its climate impact. If climate change is approached wisely, it can also be an opportunity for development and growth. Biodynamic agriculture plays an important role in this internal and external path of development. Through meaningful learning processes, it can develop knowledge and skills that are urgently needed by the new generations. Kai Lange from the Biodynamic Agricultural College (GB) and colleagues are currently restructuring his diploma in Biodynamic Farming so that climate change is integrated into all lessons. Key topics such as resilience-enhancing biodynamic practices, the potential of water and energy savings, and the assessment of the global warming potential of biodynamic farms are then part of the curriculum. In Sweden, Daniel Björklund-Jonsson and Sofi Gerber have also adapted their program for biodynamic gardening. Inspired by the UN Sustainable Development Goals, they approach the complexity of agricultural systems and climate change based on a broader and more inclusive framework of understanding. The need for holistic, flexible training approaches is growing. In 2022, the Biodynamic Federation will develop an inspiration manual from teachers worldwide with training exercises for the thinking, feeling, and wanting of the trainees in order to prepare them for an uncertain future.
Morepaz.bernaschina@demeter.net
Photo: Sophia Simoes
