The management of natural resources in the primary sector has undergone a significant transformation thanks to increased subsidies linked to the Common Agricultural Policy. In various parts of the country, especially in the Mediterranean region, there is a strong commitment to a model that not only seeks profitability but also focuses on... climate and environmental protection within agricultural holdings. This strategy allows food production to coexist harmoniously with improved biodiversity, demonstrating that the countryside can be the best ally in the fight against climate change.
Currently, these lines of financial support are mobilizing amounts of around 37 million euros each year, a considerable sum that goes directly into the pockets of those who work the land. It is estimated that more than 35.000 farmers and ranchers They are already actively involved in these initiatives, sharing the work between what are known as eco-regimes and agri-environmental and climate commitments. The ultimate goal is to ensure that farms remain viable while protecting the surrounding landscape.
Ecoregimes: the new standard for green management
Eco-regimes have become one of the most powerful tools for transforming daily life in the countryside. These are practices that producers choose voluntarily and for which they receive compensation for each hectare worked. The advantage of this system is that It offers total flexibilitysince each farmer can decide which measure suits them best depending on the type of soil they have or the crop they manage, whether it be fruit trees, cereals or pastures for livestock.
Within this sector, which generates around 18 million euros annually, there are some very specific actions that help to make the soil much healthier:
- Carbon farming: Extensive grazing and crop rotation are encouraged so that the land can capture more CO2.
- Agroecology: Creation of spaces where wildlife can take refuge, such as vegetation margins or small islands of vegetation between plots.
- Soil maintenance: In woody crops, such as olive groves or citrus groves, plant cover is left in place or pruning debris is shredded to prevent erosion.
Thanks to this collective effort, more than 272.000 hectares are being managed sustainably, which represents a huge boost for the health of our rural ecosystemsUltimately, it's about charging for doing things right, rewarding those who choose not to over-plow or who take care of the natural structure of their land.
Agro-environmental commitments and biodiversity protection
The second major pillar of this aid focuses on much more specific actions related to the environment and climate. This is where such wonderful projects as the support for beekeeping, key for pollination continues to function properly in our mountains and valleys. Measures are also included to protect birds, respecting their breeding seasons and ensuring they have a safe place to nest without being disturbed by agricultural work.
We cannot forget traditional habitats, such as rice paddies in protected wetland areas, where cultivation is essential for maintaining the balance of water and wildlife. In emblematic places like the Albufera Natural Park, this support allows rice to continue being an economic and ecological driver. Furthermore, a significant portion of the budget is allocated to... conversion towards the ecological agriculture certified, a sector that continues to grow and has annual support of close to 19 million euros.
In this same area, our genetic heritage is also protected through livestock farming. The breeding of native breeds that are in danger of disappearing is encouraged, as is the case with the Guirra sheep, which is perfectly adapted to our climate and territory. In total, more than 81.300 hectares are under these special commitments, benefiting thousands of producers who are committed to quality and respect for tradition.
The sum of all these financial and technical efforts positions the CAP as the central axis around which the future of the primary sector revolves. With a budget exceeding €37 million annually and the involvement of thousands of professionals, work on terraces and farms is becoming not only a means of livelihood, but also a guarantee of Conservation of natural resources for future generations. This production model, which balances profitability with soil resilience, demonstrates that the path towards more responsible agriculture is already well underway.
