Support for simple programmes – Sustainability of Union agriculture (Topic 3)

Actions should highlight the sustainability of Union agriculture, stressing its beneficial role for climate action and the environment.

Actions should address how the product(s) promoted and its/their production method(s) contribute to climate change mitigation (e.g. reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and/or increase in carbon removals) and/or adaptation (e.g. climate-resistant crops and crop varieties).

In addition, actions should address at least one of the following:

1. biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of natural resources (e.g. wildlife, landscape, genetic resources);
2. sustainable water management (e.g. water use efficiency, reduction of nutrients or pesticides load);
3. sustainable soil management (e.g. erosion control; nutrient balance; prevention of acidification, salinization, reduction of pesticides);
4. sustainable, carbon-efficient methods of livestock production;
5. reduction of use of antimicrobials;
6. reduction of food loss and food waste;
7. animal welfare commitments that go beyond the mandatory legal requirements.