Environmental co-operation and institutional change. Theories and policies for European agriculture

Book abstract:

This book deals with the problem of centralisation and agricultural-environmentalism within the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Contributors argue the case for a greater balance between this centralisation and more regional, federal and diverse institutional arrangements, and propose the ways and means of designing, organising and implementing them. They underline the need for increased co-operation and the greater participation of farmers in confronting environmental issues.

The work is structured into seven parts. Part one, comprised of three articles, explores theoretical approaches and the institutional foundations of environmental co-operation. Part two focuses on 'The Dutch Experience', in terms of the design and management of environmental co-operatives, and part three investigates governance structures and learning processes for changing agricultural practices. Part four examines ways of implementing agri-environmental policies, in terms of issues of collective action; parts five and six deal with the role of co-operative arrangements and knowledge systems, stakeholders' interests and conflict resolution respectively, while part seven concludes with discussions of ways of promoting environmental protection by the co-operative marketing of food products.

The book is aimed at agricultural economists and those concerned with ecological reform. It is also intended for policymakers within both the EU nations and those in Eastern and Central Europe soon to be involved in the next stage of EU enlargement.