EC considers simpler agri-environment rules

The European Commission is seeking views on how environmental provisions of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) could be simplified and the administrative burden reduced.

A consultation launched on Tuesday asks interested parties if new types of ecological focus areas (EFA) should be approved. It also asks if some types of EFA could be merged.

Respondents are also asked whether some of the EFA types are difficult to apply due to a lack of flexibility, for economic reasons or due to excessive administrative obligations.