Austria's farmers demand: secure Öpul for a green future!
Austria's farmers demand: secure Öpul for a green future!
Linz-Land, Österreich - The debate about the future of the Austrian agricultural environment program (ÖPUPUL) becomes more intensive. On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the program on June 2, 2025, both farmers and biologists require a continuation of the successful measures. ots reports that Öpul plays an important role in the protection of climate, environment, biodiversity as well as water and air quality.
Around 80 % of agricultural businesses in Austria take part in ÖPUL-measures, proof of the high importance that these programs enjoy. A record of 240,000 hectares of biodiversity areas was reached in 2023. ÖPUPUL is considered exemplary in Europe and represents a future -oriented model for sustainable agriculture.
successful approaches to biodiversity
Josef Moosbrugger, President of the Austria Chamber of Agriculture, emphasizes that incentives are more effective than bans to move farmers to implement environmentally friendly practices. In Upper Austria, the participation rate is even higher: 86 % of the companies are involved here and two thirds are biodegrading or environmentally friendly.
Franz Waldenberger, President of the Upper Austria Chamber of Agriculture, emphasizes the importance of voluntary environmental services that the farmers contribute to maintaining and promoting the cultural landscape. According to bmluk , the management of the open country is crucial for the preservation of these habitats.
An example of this is the operation of Michaela Spachinger, which reports on the advantages of the ÖPUL participation for sustainable management. Your operation relies on midruptcy and erosion protection, which has a positive impact on soil quality.
financial support and variety of measures
From 2023 to 2027, 614 million euros in compensation payments flow into the ÖPUL. This enables a wide range of measures. There are a total of 26 different initiatives to choose from, four of which are 100 % EU-financed. This illustrates European support for innovative approaches in sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.
A central point that is also supported by the Austrian strategy to implement the common agricultural policy (GAP) is the reward for environmental services beyond the legal requirements. Among other things, the proportion of biodiversity areas to be created in grassland and field is increased from 5 % to 7 %, and it is possible to voluntarily create up to 20 %.
In addition, farmers receive tailor-made educational and advisory services for the care of flowering areas. According to Environmental Federal Agency , such measures are essential in order to master the challenges of agriculture with regard to environmental protection and biodiversity management.
The future remains exciting, and it turns out: Agriculture in Austria has a good hand of combining ecological responsibility and economic success. The ÖPUPUL will play a key role to reconcile ecological awareness and economic feasibility.
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| Ort | Linz-Land, Österreich |
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