This project examines whether Member States are using CAP funding to support actions that lay the foundation for reducing livestock emissions in the next funding period. This includes informing discussions on whether additional policy measures will be needed beyond CAP support, given the necessary increase in climate ambition for the agricultural sector towards meeting the EU’s 2040 climate target.

The results will provide insights into the extent to which livestock emissions reductions are prioritized under the current CAP, highlight the changes needed for the next funding period, as well as providing recommendations to enhance CAP Strategic Plans, focusing on actions by Member States, adjustments to current and future CAP funding, and the role of private financing in scaling up impactful emission-reducing measures for livestock.

CAP funding and livestock emissions

Livestock production is a major source of GHG emissions in the EU, including indirect emissions from land use changes and fertilizer use for protein feed. The current Common Agricultural Policy (2023-2027) offers improved funding mechanisms to incentivize the adoption of more environmentally- and climate-friendly farming practices. Despite these opportunities, it is still possible for the CAP to finance high-emission livestock production. As negotiations for the next CAP period approach, it is crucial to assess how current CAP funds are being utilized to either facilitate or disincentivize the reduction of livestock emissions.

This project is the second phase of "Mitigating Livestock Emissions Through the CAP." Ecologic Institute will take forward the research and analysis by including literature review, expert interviews, assessment of CAP strategic plans, as well as the involvement of expert assessments for five Member States: Poland, France, Spain, Hungary, and Belgium-Flanders.