The Commission says support for knowledge, innovation and technology will be crucial to future-proofing the CAP. Schemes that improve economic, social or environmental performance as well as climate change adaptation and mitigation will be linked to the advisory services providing knowledge, advice, skills and innovation.

The role of the farm adviser is stressed as particularly important, as well as support for peer-to-peer exchange (like discussion groups), networking and cooperation among farmers including through producer organisations.

It says there is a clear need to boost investment in farm restructuring, modernisation, innovation and diversification.

It highlights new and digital technologies like precision agriculture, the use of big data, and clean energy in order to improve farms’ sustainability, competitiveness and resilience, including against the negative impacts of climate change.