Farmers to Get Relief as EU Plans to Ease Green Regulations

The European Commission recently introduced a plan to ease environmental rules linked to farm subsidies. This move follows prolonged protests by EU farmers, who’ve been voicing concerns over EU regulations and inexpensive imports. The proposals will now go to EU countries and lawmakers for discussion and approval.

The EU Commission estimates that the proposed changes could save farmers up to €1.58 billion annually and reduce farm inspections to once a year.

National authorities would also receive around €200 million. The changes would affect the Common Agricultural Policy, which has a budget of €387 billion for 2021-2027. Smaller farmers would be exempt from environmental conditions for subsidies, and certified organic farms would automatically meet certain environmental standards.

Additionally, farms would be allowed to remove more grasslands, and subsidies would increase for preserving peatlands and wetlands, which help manage droughts and floods.

The Commission’s statement outlined plans to enhance farmers’ competitiveness and alleviate administrative pressures in the agricultural industry.

EU Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen noted that the proposal aims to reduce red tape, enabling farmers to concentrate on producing food and preserving natural resources.

About the Author

Natalie Semono

Editor

I am Natalie Semono and I am an environmental reporter with a Journalism Studies qualification from Rosebank College. I am passionate about telling impactful stories on climate change, conservation, and environmental justice. With a clear, engaging style, I translate complex issues into narratives that inform and inspire. My reporting aims to amplify underrepresented voices and connect communities with the urgent environmental challenges shaping our world.

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