Respondents also agree that the CAP contributes to improving trade relations between the EU and the rest of the world (66% agree) and to the smooth running of the EU single market (65% agree). Commenting on this publication, EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Phil Hogan, said: "I welcome the growing importance that citizens are putting on agriculture and rural areas, and appreciate that 70% of Europeans believe that the EU is fulfilling its role in securing the European food supply. I also welcome the indications that EU citizens understand how the CAP is contributing to investment, growth and jobs. These will feed into our deliberations when determining EU policy for the future."
The outcome of the survey also highlights the importance for the future that the general public puts on agriculture and rural areas (>90%) and confirms the trend from previous surveys which shows increasing concern about the future of agriculture and rural areas as well as improved awareness of the CAP. The aim of this Special Eurobarometer Survey was to understand the relationship between Europeans and agriculture, by exploring the level of importance they attach to agriculture, understanding their view of the role of the farmer and what they believe are the main objectives of the EU with regards to agriculture.
REPORT & FACT SHEETS
Commenting on this publication, EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Phil Hogan, said: "I welcome the growing importance that citizens are putting on agriculture and rural areas, and appreciate that 70% of Europeans believe that the EU is fulfilling its role in securing the European food supply. I also welcome the indications that EU citizens understand how the CAP is contributing to investment, growth and jobs. These will feed into our deliberations when determining EU policy for the future."
Other responses highlight the importance for the future that the general public puts on agriculture and rural areas (>90%) and confirm the trend from previous surveys which shows increasing concern for agriculture and rural areas, as well as improved awareness of the CAP.
A large majority of Europeans are in favour of the EU continuing to pay farmers for carrying out agricultural practices that are beneficial to the climate and the environment (87%, vs. 6% "opposed").
Generally, Europeans are showing an increasing concern for agriculture and rural areas. Public opinion is generally positive in reference to whether the EU is fulfilling its role in securing and ensuring products are of good quality, healthy and safe.
With regards to forests, Europeans believe they provide mainly environmental benefits such as absorbing carbon dioxide to fight climate change, conserving nature and providing natural animal habitats.
The aim of this Special Eurobarometer Survey was to understand the relationship between Europeans and agriculture, by exploring the level of importance they attach to agriculture, understanding their view of the role of the farmer and what they believe are the main objectives of the EU with regards to agriculture.
