Fri, Oct 27th 2023
Insurance company Schweizer Hagel has estimated the amount of damage to agricultural crops at 22 million francs for the current year. The demand for insurance solutions for drought, heavy rain or frost is constantly increasing, according to the statement.
Schweizer Hagel’s business year showed the consequences of climate change, the agricultural insurer wrote in a statement Wednesday. The claims situation clearly shows that, in addition to drought and flooding, repeated storms must also be taken into account, explained Adrian Aebi, director of Schweizer Hagel.
Compared to the record year 2021, the damage balance of 22 million Swiss francs in 2023 is nevertheless relatively good so far. At that time, hail in particular caused major damage to agricultural crops. The insured loss amounted to 110 million Swiss francs, the largest loss so far in the 140-year history of the cooperatively organized agricultural insurer.
Today, however, insurance alone is no longer enough for a farm. What is needed is agriculture that is adapted to the location and practices that are geared to climate change. This includes drought-tolerant crops and varieties, soil-friendly cultivation methods and efficient water management.
According to the press release, Schweizer Hagel has set itself the goal of supporting agriculture in adapting to climate change not only with insurance solutions. Instead, it also aims to raise awareness and promote adaptation measures as well as support innovative projects and technologies.
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