Common Agricultural Policy Indicators - Climate Change and Air Quality

Indicators contributing to the assessment of the performance of the Common Agricultural Policy. Agriculture is highly exposed to climate change, as farming activities directly depend on climatic conditions. Agriculture also contributes to climate change through the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Agriculture affects air quality through emissions of ammonia. However, agriculture can also contribute to climate change mitigation by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and by sequestering carbon while maintaining food production. To that end permanent grassland maintenance and supporting farmers using these pastures play a key role. In addition, the Rural Development policy promotes resource efficiency and supports the shift towards a low carbon and climate resilient economy.