Income support is partly linked to environmental commitment

The Member States in the European Union have reached an agreement on the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). This policy must support the further development of an innovative and future-proof agricultural sector that is in balance with nature, the environment and climate. For example, 20% of direct support is linked to efforts in the field of ecological provisions.

The European Union has long argued for linking environmental and climate objectives to the CAP. The fear was, however, that the laws and regulations in the field of nature, the environment and climate would play too great a role, especially for smaller farmers. The Member States have now reached a compromise: 20% of the direct income support of the new CAP is set aside to reward farmers who contribute to the climate, environment and nature with their efforts. In short: farmers get money if they meet the ecological objectives of their member state.

Support for young farmers
The new CAP also pays extra attention to young farmers. The Member States are in fact obliged to spend 2% of the budget for direct income support on this group of farmers. In addition, targeted investment support for young farmers also counts for that 2%. It also remains possible for agricultural collectives to the new CAP subsidized to work on agricultural nature and landscape management.

Finally, the Netherlands has committed itself to simplifying policy. In the new policy, for example, there will be more room for Member States to simplify the national implementation of legislation and regulations. In addition, direct payments will soon be based directly on the number of hectares, without a complicated system of payment entitlements as is now the case.

Transition phase of 2 years
In order to be able to implement all new measures properly, a so-called 2-year 'learning phase' is being set up. The new CAP will therefore enter into force as of 2021, but transitional measures will apply for the next 2 years. The next step is for the European Parliament to consider the Member States' proposals.

Kimberly Baker

Kimberly Bakker is an all-round editor at Boerenbusiness. She also has an eye for the social media channels of Boerenbusiness.

k.baker @boerenbusiness. Nl

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