Kurana, together with one of the most famous environmental organizations, BirdLife, is implementing the ‘Harmone with Nature’ initiative, which aims to promote more sustainable agriculture, the preservation of biodiversity and the application of advanced agricultural practices.
The winners of this initiative were Rima and Artūras Atkočiūnai, farmers in Biržai district, who prove with their daily decisions that sustainable farming can be both responsible and economically sustainable.
Sustainable Solutions – From Field to Final Product
Artūras Atkočiūnas supplies part of his farm’s production – wheat and rapeseed – for the production of renewable fuel. Environmentally friendly solutions on the farm have become the main reason why he was recognized as the winner of the ‘Harmony with Nature’ initiative. The farmer has implemented all the main ecoschemas: he follows crop rotation, grows intermediate crops, uses certified seed and uses non-arable, soil-saving agriculture.
Such practices help preserve soil fertility, reduce negative impacts on the environment and contribute to long-term farm stability. According to A. Atkočiūnas, the decision to farm more sustainably is a conscious choice based on responsibility for future generations.
‘It is important to look to the future and not deplete the soil. – says A. Atkočiūnas.
An initiative that unites farmers and environmental
The project ‘Harmone with nature’ is intended to encourage farmers to become active allies of nature – to protect biodiversity, conserve natural resources and introduce advanced agricultural practices on their farms. The initiative also contributes to the creation of a sustainable value chain, from responsibly grown raw materials to the final product.
According to Jurgis Polujanskas, General Director of Kuranas, the company’s goal is to promote sustainable farming not only in the production process, but also in the entire raw material supply chain. ‘Kurana’ buys about 169 thousand from farmers every year. tons of non-food grains and aims for this raw material to be grown in accordance with high environmental standards.
‘Only by being in harmony with nature can we create a successful and long-lasting business. Therefore, together with BirdLife, we want to help farmers choose the path of sustainable agriculture and motivate them to participate in ecosystems,’ says J. Polujanskas.
Ecoschemas – the way to a more sustainable farm
Ekoschemas is one of the measures that allow farmers to contribute to more environmentally friendly agriculture. They include practices such as intermediate crops, perennial meadows, no-till farming and other measures that help protect soil and biodiversity.
Although not all farmers participate in ecosystems in Lithuania yet, the ‘Harmone with Nature’ initiative aims to show good examples and inspire change. The farm of Rima and Artūrs Atkočiūnai is one of them.
The winners of the ‘Harmone with Nature’ initiative prove that sustainable farming is not just a theory – it is a real solution that creates benefits for the farm, the environment and society as a whole. ‘Kurana’ and ‘Birdlife’ hope that this initiative will eventually bring together even more farmers who are ready to farm responsibly and in harmony with nature.
