Scotland can develop sustainable agriculture fit for a changing climate:
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Sustainable farming methods. We will continue to support research on farming methods that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance biodiversity and increase carbon storage. This includes providing alternatives to the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilisers. We will argue for Scotland’s ban on genetically-modified crops to remain in force, and will continue to campaign for a ban on neonicotinoids to protect wild pollinators and bee populations, and enhance biodiversity.
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Healthy soils. Soil erosion is a growing threat to our agriculture and overall environmental quality that can be reduced through better land management practices. We will support measures to reduce soil erosion, from planting cover crops and strengthening hedgerows to contour ploughing.