On the contribution of modelling to multifunctional agriculture: Learning from comparisons

Abstract

20 21In this paper a set of criteria is proposed for the evaluation of the potential contribution of modelling 22 tools to strengthening the multifunctionality of agriculture. The four main areas of evaluation are (1) 23 policy relevance, (2) the temporal resolution and scope, (3) the degree to which spatial and socio-24 institutional scales and heterogeneity are addressed and (4) and environmental quality. Co-Viability Analysis generates viable trajectories of changes in farming 2 activities within a given set of constraints, to reach a desired future. In the application implemented in 3 the project, co-viability analysis focuses on grassland grazed by cattle which is also the breeding 4 habitat of two wader species at field level. 5The three modelling approaches differ in their policy relevance, in the ways that spatial and socio-6 institutional scales are addressed and in their levels of integration, but jointly cover most of the desired 7 capabilities for assessment of multifunctionality. Caveats were particularly identified in the integration 8 of the socio-institutional dimension and the related heterogeneity. Although the model portfolio did 9 not completely satisfy the demands of the of the set of evaluative criteria, it is concluded that, due to 10 their complementarities, in combination the three models could significantly contribute to further 11 development and strengthening of multifunctionality. 12 13

Trade-offs between profit, production, and environmental footprint on pasture-based dairy farms in the Waikato region of New Zealand

“…The trade-off function formalism is extended in this study to help portray, in an integrative fashion, the economic, environmental, and production implications of different management plans. This links closely with studies that employ multi-objective optimisation to explore the relationship between different effects of land-use management, to inform discussion and aid learning (Groot et al, 2009). However, this study is distinctly different, in that it focuses on the farm, rather than the regional, scale.…”

Applying the ecosystem services framework to pasture-based livestock farming systems in Europe

“…There are several approaches to analysing trade-offs among ES (Groot et al, 2009). Here, we present a short overview of three types of modelling approaches: pareto-based optimisation, co-viability analysis (CVA) and companion modelling.…”

Exploring multifunctional agriculture. A review of conceptual approaches and prospects for an integrative transitional framework

“…Only recently, such models have begun to include other than economic or abiotic environmental objectives ). An example in which economic, abiotic environmental, landscape and biodiversity objectives are considered jointly is Groot et al (2007Groot et al ( , 2009.…”