In a newly published report, the audit agency of the EU assessed whether the Commission and member states made effective use of EU tools for managing agricultural soils and manure sustainably.
The audit covered CAP measures and the actions relevant to manure management undertaken in the implementation of the Nitrates Directive. The report found that EU’s tool ensuring that farmers comply with environmental conditions – “cross-compliance” – has the potential to address threats to soil; still these conditions (which farmers are obliged to meet to receive payments under the CAP) do not go far enough. Evidence shows that actual changes in farming practices are insufficient and only have small effects on soil and manure management.
To access the full report please click here.