Agri-environmental policies in OECD countries

The toolbox of agri-environmental policy instruments applied in OECD countries to achieve their various environmental objectives reflect several issues including: i) the overall policy approach to the sector ii) the specific environmental issues and their perceived linkage to agricultural activities iii) the nature of property rights related to the use of natural resources (land, water and vegetation) and iv) societal concerns related to environmental issues. In addition, “suasive” measures are intended to change perceptions and priorities within the farmer’s decision framework by heightening the level of environmental awareness and responsibility.