Bucharest, August 6, 2024 – Today, during the press conference entitled “Drought: The Challenge of the 21st Century in Agriculture”, held at Crowne Plaza Bucharest, experts in the field of agriculture and food security discussed the severe impact of climate change on agriculture in Romania and presented innovative technologies to adapt to these changes.
The conference emphasized that in the current context of climate change, extreme events such as droughts are becoming more frequent and severe, putting pressure on water resources and negatively affecting agriculture and ecosystems. In the face of these challenges, the generation of artificial precipitation appears as a promising solution. However, it cannot be considered in isolation and needs to be integrated into a broader set of actions working in synergy to effectively manage drought impacts. Only through a comprehensive approach, including both technological measures and sustainable natural resource management strategies, can the challenges of climate change be effectively addressed.
Prof. univ. Dr. Valeriu Tabăra , President of the Academy of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences
“Gheorghe Ionescu-Șișești”, drew attention to the need for strict regulation of the anti-hail field and other climate interventions: “We are facing extreme weather phenomena, and between September 1, 2023 and March 2024 the average temperature increased by 3 degrees compared to last season. Thus extreme weather events, for example hail forming in large pieces, can lead to devastating consequences for agriculture. It is crucial to improve the hail protection system and not to give up these technologies. Romanian agriculture must be prepared to face weather challenges and this requires continuous investment and clear regulations.”
Robert Băicoianu, Executive Director of ONIV, reported on the direct impact of climate change on viticulture
“Within just two hours, an entire crop can be lost to hail. Climate change affects not only the quantity but also the quality of crops. It is vital that we get organized and educate farmers about the benefits of these protection and adaptation systems.”
Viorel Manole, Executive Director of the National Defense Industry – PATROMIL, emphasized the close link between national and food security:
“The number one priority is defense. However, we can also use available funds to support agriculture through active interventions in the atmosphere. It is essential that we continue collaboration between industry, academia and science to tackle these global challenges.”
Eng. Lazăr Ionuț, IAA specialist, explained the importance of weather modification technologies in combating drought:
“In the current climate change context, adaptation is the key word. We have achieved very good results in trials to boost precipitation using aviation and ground-based generators. Romania has the potential to become a research hub for cloud seeding, but it is essential to further develop these technologies to prevent possible food crises.”
In conclusion, the conference emphasized the need for concerted action by all stakeholders to combat the effects of climate change on Romanian agriculture, given that the global climate will change and extreme weather events will become increasingly common.
Available technologies must be used efficiently and research and innovation must be supported to ensure Romania’s food and economic security.
