Summary:
In recent years, organic farming in western Europe has developed rapidly,
stimulated by strong consumer demand and policy initiatives. Almost all
western European countries now provide direct financial support to farmers
converting to or continuing with organic farming. Within the European Union,
these policies are implemented under the common legal framework of
Regulation 2078/92, known as the agri-environment programme. In addition,
financial support is available for research and development, training and
education, extension, market development and certification procedures. A
comprehensive review of these policies reveals a very wide range of
approaches in practice, relating to levels and types of payment, the
conditions imposed, and the actual costs incurred. This paper presents
details of the policies being implemented in each of the 15 European Union
countries, together with data on the development of organic farming in each
country. The different approaches to eligibility conditions and levels of
payment are examined critically according to criteria for effective policy
measures.
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University of Wales, Aberystwyth, should be sent to the address below.
Nic Lampkin
Please note that the address given below contains changes to campus
location, postcode, departmental phone and fax numbers with effect from 19th
September 1996. My direct line telephone and e-mail address are not affected.
Welsh Institute of Rural Studies
Llanbadarn Campus
University of Wales, Aberystwyth
GB-Ceredigion SY23 3AL
Direct Tel: +44 (0)1970 622248
Department: +44 (0)1970 624471
Fax: +44 (0)1970 611264
http://www.aber.ac.uk/~wirwww/research/orgfarm.htm