Inconsistent Use of EU Funds
The European Court of Auditors (ECA) has found that EU member states are misapplying funds meant to support organic farming, leading to disappointing results. Despite €12 billion being allocated to this sector since 2014, production has not significantly increased. The auditors noted that key principles of organic farming were often ignored, with funds being provided without ensuring that farmers adhere to these guidelines.
Missed Environmental Targets
The EU has set a goal for organic farming to cover 25% of agricultural land by 2030, but this target is unlikely to be met. The ECA audit revealed that inconsistent definitions of organic farming across member states and a lack of measurable environmental benefits are major obstacles. To address these issues, auditors recommended that the EU introduce clear targets, milestones, and performance indicators to track progress.
Varied Adoption Across Member States
Adoption of organic farming practices varies widely across the EU, with countries like Austria having more than 25% of land farmed organically, while others, such as Poland and the Netherlands, lag behind with less than 5%. The audit highlights that for the EU to meet its goals, organic farming would need to double in many countries. Despite an additional €15 billion being planned for the sector by 2027, current trends suggest that further changes are needed to boost uptake.
Concerns Over Inconsistent Organic Standards
The audit revealed that EU funds for organic farming are not always linked to compliance with essential practices like crop rotation and animal welfare. Additionally, it is common for organic farmers to receive permission to use non-organic seeds, undermining the core principles of organic farming. The ECA stressed the need for more consistent application of standards to ensure that organic farming truly delivers its promised environmental benefits.
Calls for a Comprehensive EU Policy
The auditors urged the European Commission to develop a comprehensive policy for organic farming, warning that simply expanding the area of organic land is insufficient. Keit Pentus-Rosimannus, the ECA member responsible for the audit, emphasized the need for a sustainable market-driven approach, rather than one overly reliant on EU funds. Organic farming organizations are also keen to see these recommendations reflected in the upcoming “Vision for Agriculture and Food” policy expected from the Commission.
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