Land Evaluation and Agro-environmental Indicators: Exploring Spatial Trends of Nitrogen Balance in Greece

Abstract

The development and application of a suitable methodology for establishing agri-environmental indicators was the aim of this study, according to the new approaches of environmental dimension of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) of the European Union. Agri-environmental indicator development is illustrated by a concrete case study of Nitrogen balance at detailed spatial scale (NUTS IV or LAU1) administrative level in Greece. The nitrogen balance is an indicator of the risk posed to the environment from the excess of nitrogen due to the agriculture. The LAU1 analysis of the Nitrogen balance was carried-out in order to identify vulnerable areas in terms of soil and water resources. 

        To this end an original methodology has been developed, using information from statistical databases and from Geographical Information System (GIS) in an attempt to answer this question. Vulnerable areas, due to high nitrogen surplus, are identified using this methodology achieving that specific policy measures for environmental protection at the national can be applied.

This study can be considered as a scale tool informing the reorientation of the CAP, which is directed to transfer support from agricultural products to local incomes and encourages environmentally friendly agricultural activities.