Publication - European Parliament The Promotion of Non-Food Crops

European Parliament, STUDY (2005) IP/B/AGRI/ST/2005-02 29/07

Directorate General Internal Policies of the Union, Policy Department Structural and Cohesion Policies, Agriculture and Rural Development,

Download copy as PDF

Note: This study was produced by The National Non-Food Crops Centre, United Kingdom

Abstract: This report attempts to chart the nature and extent of non-food uses of crops in the enlarged European Union and to examine how the sector can be promoted. Major factors impacting development of non-food uses of crops are addressed, including: international trade environmental agreements, European policy, enlargement, competitiveness, market considerations and technology.

The current non-food applications of crops are reviewed and likely developments up to 2010 discussed. This is followed by a critical evaluation of outcomes that have been predicted from adoption of non-food uses of crops, including environmental benefits and impacts consumer prices and farm incomes. The report concludes by reviewing the incentives that in place across the EU and in member states to support development of non-food crops.