The Netherlands wants to reward future-oriented farmers more strongly

All member states were required by the European Union to draw up a National Strategic Plan for Agricultural Policy (NSP). With this the EU wants to give substance to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). With this NSP, the Netherlands wants to reward farmers more strongly, just like the CAP. The summary of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) will be available for inspection from 22 December 2021 to 1 February 2022. Anyone who wants to can respond to it.

NSP

The new CAP focuses on supporting farmers who choose to make their businesses more sustainable and innovative. Over the entire five-year period, a total of about 4.7 billion euros is available. Much of this money will be spent on supporting farmers who innovate, renew and contribute to goals for biodiversity, climate, soil, water and air. The most obvious change is the commitment to the eco-rule. Farmers can choose eco-activities they want to implement on their farms, and receive compensation.

Jointly drafted

Provinces, the Union of Water Boards and the State have worked together for the past three years to draft this NSP. The NSP was submitted to the European Commission for approval at the end of December 2021. The summary of the NSP together with the accompanying Strategic Environmental Assessment can be found at www.toekomstglb.nl.

Consultation

Beginning 2022, a national consultation round of the NSP will take place. The views may lead to adjustments. Questions and comments from the European Commission may also lead to adjustments. Finally, technical modifications are possible each year during the implementation period. As usual the national government, water boards and provinces will work together in the implementation. The NSP will become final in the course of 2022 and will enter into force on 1 January 2023.