Assessing the Convergence of Farming Systems towards a Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions in European Union Countries

Abstract

This study investigates change in the intensification of agricultural activities and its effect on the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of the 27 European Union (EU) Member States over a ten-year period from 2009 to 2019. Both multivariate and non-parametric convergence analyses were employed, using 27 indicators extrapolated from the FAO dataset. The results provide a reasonable assessment of the differences between countries in relation to their farming production methods and show that the levels of convergence/divergence depend on changes in agricultural activities over the past decade. Indeed, differences in land use, the application of organic fertilizers and pesticides, the raising of livestock, and GHG emissions allow “homogenous” groups of Member States with common features to be identified. It is important to understand the dynamics of different agriculture systems and production activities because, beneath management practices, there may be differences between systems. In particular, in the context of the Common Agricultural Policy 2023–2027, the results of grouping can act as the basis for a diversified policy for reducing GHG emissions in relation to specific clusters of EU countries.