Livestock grazing on grasslands must be supported with coupled payments, according to a new policy document from the Green Party/EFA in Europe. The European Green Party document states that sustainable grazing of grasslands is positive for climate protection and farmers should be given coupled supports for grazing livestock on their grasslands.

“Better use has to be made of the potential of grasslands for the promotion of soil fertility, flood protection, balanced watersheds, climate mitigation and the enhancement of biodiversity,” the European Green Party said.

The document also states that research reflecting the special dynamics of grasslands and their ability to capture and store carbon should be supported. In Europe, most cattle are reared indoors with only limited access to grasslands.