Agricultural Transformation

Agriculture consumes 70% of France's freshwater and contributes massive pollution through pesticides and fertilizers. Traditional intensive farming depletes aquifers, erodes soil, and poisons waterways. But alternative approaches gain ground, often led by farmers with international perspectives.

Near Toulouse, farmers transition from water-intensive corn to drought-resistant sorghum and millet, guided by advisors from West Africa. "These crops seem exotic to French farmers," notes agricultural extension agent Boubacar Diallo. "But they're perfect for our changing climate. My job is translating Sahelian techniques to Garonne conditions."

Organic farming expands along sensitive waterways, supported by consumers willing to pay for river-friendly production. Young farmers, many from non-agricultural backgrounds, experiment with permaculture, agroforestry, and other water-conserving methods.