How can the European Common Agricultural Policy help halt biodiversity loss? Recommendations by over 300 experts

• DOI: 10.1111/conl.12901
• Publication Date: 2022-06-30T11:02:19Z
• Authors: Guy Pe'er; John A. Finn; Mario Díaz; Maren Birkenstock; Sebastian Lakner; Norbert Röder; Yanka Kazakova; Tanja Šumrada; Peter Bezák; Elena D. Concepción; Juliana Dänhardt; Manuel B. Morales; Ilona Rac; Jana Špulerová; Stefan Schindler; Menelaos Stavrinides; Stefano Targetti; Davide Viaggi; Ioannis N. Vogiat...; Hervé Guyomard
• Keywords: Common Agricultural Policy

Abstract The European Union's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has not halted farmland biodiversity loss. CAP post‐2023 a new ‘‘Green Architecture,’’ including the ‘‘Eco‐scheme’’ instrument. How can this Green Architecture help tackle crisis? Through 13 workshops and an online survey, over 300 experts from 23 Member States addressed question. From experts’ contributions, key principles for success include preserving restoring (semi)natural elements extensive grasslands; improving spatial planning landscape‐scale implementation, through collective actions; implementing result‐based approaches; improved knowledge exchange. To maximize effectiveness of Eco‐scheme biodiversity, highlighted need to prioritize evidence‐based actions, allocate sufficient budget incentivize management improvements higher payment levels. Additionally, stronger coherence is needed among instruments. For effective Commission should expand investments in monitoring, transfer, capacity‐building within relevant institutions. remaining risks CAP's ability reverse loss still require better design, closer greater transparency, engagement with farmers. involvement scientists guide toward while accounting synergies trade‐offs other objectives.