Agriculture and the Greek Rural Environment

Abstract

Over the past forty years Greek agriculture has experienced significant changes with profound impact on the state of the rural environment. Intensification of agricultural production is the driving force behind most negative environmental impacts caused by agricultural activities. Intensification is indicated by increased farm specialization and concentration, mechanization of production, increased fertilizer and pesticide use and high demand for irrigation water. The relationship between agriculture and the environment presents important territorial differences. A traditional level of analysis is adopted, relating to the territorial differentiation of rural space into mountainous, semi‐mountainous and plain areas. This is a classification based on a complex criterion that encompasses various environmental conditions and diverse human activity. In this framework, actual and potential conflicts or synergies are easily perceived and satisfactory policy responses are proposed.