Scholarly record
SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN THE EUROPEAN UNION: AN ASSESSMENT OF CO2 EMISSIONS AND FARMING INDICATORS
Abstract
Agriculture plays a crucial role in the global carbon cycle, as it serves as a source of one of the greenhouse gases. Therefore, a data-based understanding of how to mitigate its impact on the environment and climate change is needed. The research aim is to evaluate the dynamics of the agrifood system in the European Union (EU) Member States from 2013 to 2022, with a primary focus on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, livestock population density, and agricultural land use. The results indicate that Germany, France, and Poland have the highest overall CO2 emissions. However, 16 EU countries have reduced their agrifood CO2 emissions between 2013 and 2022, while 11 countries have seen an increase in CO2 emissions. The correlation between CO2 emissions and livestock animals is showing a strong relationship in some countries, highlighting the importance that livestock farming can play in the creation of greenhouse gas emissions. Also, countries with the highest Animal Units on the Farm (AUF), such as Belgium, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Malta, have higher environmental pressures due to intensive livestock production. Furthermore, the results indicate trends in CO2 emissions, with overall downward trends in countries such as France and Germany reflecting enhanced efforts in sustainable agriculture and agrifood systems. To summarize, a high ratio of AUF, combined with extensive livestock production in certain countries, remains a significant environmental concern. The results highlight the need for continuous adjustments and improvements in agricultural efficiency to enhance sustainability in the EU, with a particular focus on reducing livestock density and optimizing land use.
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