Problems of Biodiversity Conservation in Polish Agriculture

Abstract

The problem of biodiversity loss in agriculture is associated with both the excessive intensification of agricultural production and the cessation of the agricultural use of the land. In view of the above, under the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy, measures are taken for the conservation of biodiversity. An instrument, in which Polish farmers have been participating since 2004, is the Agri-Environmental Program (AEP). The experiences of the implementation of Polish AEP are presented based on results of the study conducted in 2011 in the region of Mazury. The study involved approximately 8.5% of farmers participating in the program. The study results indicate the need for more significant diversification and adaptation of the AEP packages to the regional environmental determinants. Independently of the designated Natura 2000 areas, records must be taken of the patches of habitats of particular natural and ornithological values. This will allow a considerable facilitation of the procedures associated with the implementation of the nature AEP packages, and contribute to the enhancement of the effects of the funds allocated for that purpose. Another important issue is the strengthening of the market position of organic production holdings which promote the preservation of biodiversity and operate principally thanks to agricultural subsidies.

KEYWORDS:

• biodiversity
• agriculture
• Agri-Environmental Program (AEP)
• organic farming