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Final evaluation report of the Swedish rural programme 2007–2013

Tractor harvesting a field. Photo.

Four different research teams have shared the assignment of evaluating the the Swedish rural programme 2007–2013. One of the groups have been responsible for the second partial report, with the assignment of evaluating the programmes effect when it comes to measures for improving the environment. This research group has worked under the supervision of Henrik Smith who has also been the editor of the report together with Juliana Dänhardt, both from CEC.

The assessment of the second partial report is that the program to a high degree has contributed to increased biological diversity, improved water quality and strengthened natural resources. The environmental measures that has been implemented within the program aim mostly for preserving biological diversity, lowering nutrients leakage and measures for a toxin-free environment. Most of these measures have contributed to reaching these targets. When it comes to cost effectiveness f the measures has this been difficult to evaluate when it comes to measures for increased biodiversity. For nutrient leakage the measures has been highly cost efficient.

This partial report also suggests a number of areas where methods can be improved. Above all the report underlines the importance of measures to be adjusted in order to meet local requirements.  

Other participants from CEC in this research group include Paul Caplat, Helena Hanson, Annelie M. Jönsson, Åke Lindström, Lovisa Nilsson, Ola Olsson, Rebecca Stewart and Martin Stjernman.

The other research teams have investigated the programmes effect in achieving a sustainable development in Sweden’s rural areas when it comes to economic and social aspects. In these aspects, there has been very small effects when it comes to integration and equality in the countryside while there is some evidence of positive effects on economic activity.

The evaluation is compiled in four different partial reports and there is also a summary of the entire report. There are four seminars where the partial reports will be presented and these can be followed live and later on in recorded form. To follow the presentations in person you will have to go to the Swedish Board of Agricultures office in Jönköping.

The partial report II that CEC has been leading will be presented on Thursday 9 February at 10.15.