The 150 million euro nitrate pollution program inked

The Deputy Minister of Rural Development and Food, Giorgos Stylios, signed the decision for the implementation of the program for the reduction of water pollution from agricultural activity (nitrate pollution), within the Rural Development Program, which will be implemented in 2022-2023.

“Consistent with its environmental sensitivity, the government has significant resources of 150 million euros for two years, in a measure that strengthens farmers to reduce chemical consumption, while improving the quality of surface and groundwater in the Greek countryside. “, Said Mr. Stylios to the Athenian-Macedonian News Agency.

He added that “the measure, which is applied in specific areas of the country that have been identified as vulnerable to nitrate pollution, is part of a wide range of actions to protect the environment.”

These actions aim to:

-the preservation and enhancement of biodiversity

– in the improvement of water

In the management of fertilizers and pesticides

– in preventing soil erosion and improving their quality

The new Decision introduces significant improvements to the existing framework, including facilitating access to more small and medium-sized agricultural holdings. Farmers will be supported with amounts starting from 190 euros per hectare and will reach up to 600 euros per hectare, per year, depending on the cultivation and the practices they will apply. Applications will be made electronically, and invitations are expected to be issued soon.

“It is a conscious political decision and strategic choice to produce products with ecological methods, with the smallest possible environmental footprint,” said Mr. Stylios.