Inside the minds of farmers
Why they join Agri-Environmental Schemes and what it means for policy
by Szilárd Podruzsik and Imre Fertő
Environmental damage and climate change are serious global problems. Agriculture plays a big role in solving them. In the European Union (EU), Agri-Environmental Schemes (AES) are key to promoting sustainable farming. These programs reward farmers for protecting nature, improving ecosystems, and reducing harm to the environment. However, not all farmers join these programs, and participation varies across EU countries. Our research looked at studies from the last ten years to understand why farmers choose to join or avoid AES. By combining ideas from ecology, economics, and sociology, we uncover critical lessons for improving these schemes’ effectiveness.
What makes farmers join AES?
Our research highlights several reasons why farmers decide to participate in Agri-Environmental Schemes. These findings provide valuable insights into the key factors driving their choices.
Financial benefits. Economic incentives emerged as one of the strongest motivators for farmers in our study. Many join AES because the payments help stabilize their income or reduce costs. However, a recurring concern is that current financial rewards often fail to fully cover the additional effort, time, and risks involved in adopting environmentally friendly practices.
Trust in the system. Trust in the institutions managing AES also proved crucial. Our findings show that farmers are more likely to participate when they perceive clear rules, fair policies, and well-implemented programs. Conversely, complicated bureaucracy and inconsistent enforcement discourage engagement by undermining confidence in the system.
Community and peer support. Social influence plays a significant role as well. Based on our research, farmers are more inclined to join AES when they see peers benefiting or receive support from trusted intermediaries. Integration into local networks and exposure to successful examples create a positive ripple effect, encouraging broader participation in sustainable practices.
Why some farmers do not join AES?
Agri-Environmental Schemes have significant potential to support sustainability, however many farmers face obstacles that prevent them from joining. Our research highlights three main reasons for this.
Too complicated. Many farmers find the rules of AES confusing. They often feel that these programs don’t align with their farming practices. The complexity of the requirements can make participation seem more trouble than it’s worth.
Focus on immediate needs. Farmers often prioritize short-term profitability over long-term environmental goals. The benefits of conservation efforts may feel too distant, especially when immediate financial pressures dominate their decision-making.
Some will never join. Our findings indicate that about one-third of farmers are unlikely to join AES, regardless of the incentives offered. These farmers may have deeply ingrained farming practices or see little value in participating.
Policymakers need to design programs that appeal to the majority of farmers while exploring alternative strategies for those who are unlikely to engage. Keeping programs practical and relevant is key to increasing participation.
How to improve AES?
To make Agri-Environmental Schemes more effective, policymakers must address key challenges. Our research suggests three practical solutions.
Make payments fair and effective. Farmers need to feel that the financial rewards are worth the time and effort they put in. Payments linked to clear, measurable environmental outcomes can motivate farmers and ensure greater impact. This approach could make AES both more attractive and more efficient.
Keep it simple and local. Many farmers avoid AES because they find the rules confusing. Simplifying the process can make a big difference. Tailoring programs to fit local farming needs and involving regional groups in program design can also build trust and relevance.
Use farmer communities. Farmers often look to their peers when deciding whether to join programs. Sharing success stories and supporting community-led initiatives can encourage more participation. Local networks play a big role in creating a culture of sustainability among farmers.
By addressing these areas, AES can become more accessible and effective, helping both farmers and the environment.
A chance to make a difference
The EU is raising its environmental goals through the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). This is a big opportunity to support farmers and protect nature. Agri-Environmental Schemes are key tools to fight climate change and save biodiversity. But they only work if they fit the real needs of farmers. Policymakers can make AES more effective by keeping them simple, fair, and tailored to local areas. This isn’t just about hitting environmental targets—it’s about building a sustainable future for farmers and the planet.
References: Podruzsik, S., & Fertő, I. (2024). “Motivations for Farmers’ Participation in Agri-Environmental Scheme in the EU: A Literature Review.” Open Agriculture.
https://doi.org/10.1515/opag-2022-0379
