About Terre de liens
Terre de Liens: Preserving Agricultural Lands and Supporting Organic Farming
Terre de Liens is a French non-profit organization that is dedicated to preserving agricultural lands, facilitating access to land for farmers, and promoting organic and sustainable farming practices. The organization was founded in 2003 with the aim of addressing the growing problem of land concentration in France, which was leading to the disappearance of small-scale family farms and the loss of biodiversity.
The mission of Terre de Liens is to create a network of people who are committed to preserving agricultural lands for future generations. The organization works by acquiring farmland through donations or purchases, then leasing it out at affordable rates to farmers who practice organic or sustainable agriculture. This approach helps ensure that farmland remains in use for agriculture rather than being sold off for development or other purposes.
One of the key goals of Terre de Liens is to support small-scale family farms by providing them with access to land. Many young farmers struggle with high land prices and limited availability, making it difficult for them to start their own businesses. By providing affordable leases on farmland, Terre de Liens helps these farmers get started and build successful businesses.
In addition to supporting individual farmers, Terre de Liens also works on a larger scale by promoting policies that support sustainable agriculture practices. The organization advocates for changes in government policies related to land use, taxation, and subsidies that would encourage more sustainable farming practices.
Terre de Liens has been successful in its efforts so far; since its founding in 2003, it has acquired over 5,000 hectares (12,355 acres) of farmland across France. This includes both arable land as well as pastureland used for grazing livestock.
The organization's work has also had positive impacts on local communities; by supporting small-scale family farms rather than large industrial operations, Terre de Liens helps keep money circulating within local economies. Additionally, organic and sustainable farming practices help protect the environment by reducing the use of harmful chemicals and preserving biodiversity.
Overall, Terre de Liens is an important organization that is working to address some of the most pressing issues facing agriculture today. By preserving farmland, supporting small-scale family farms, and promoting sustainable agriculture practices, Terre de Liens is helping to build a more resilient and sustainable food system for future generations.