Image of two producers transplanting a fruit tree

Impact areas and claims

Environment

With over half of the world’s vegetated land now used for agriculture according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), it is crucial to promote farming practices that conserve natural resources and protect global ecosystems on a wide scale.

Recognizing the farm as an agricultural ecosystem

Why do GLOBALG.A.P. standards address environmental aspects of responsible farming?

Research by the FAO and UNEP has shown that land conversion and agricultural activity can be key drivers of problems such as biodiversity loss, deforestation, and soil degradation. We believe that targeted solutions are needed to support producers in the resilient, environmentally responsible production of food for a growing population. Such production involves viewing the farm as an ecosystem that is in harmony, rather than competition, with the surrounding landscape.

Image of a farmer inspecting soil quality

How GLOBALG.A.P. standards address environmental aspects of responsible farming

Our standards require the implementation of procedures that are designed to manage and minimize risks to the environment via seven key topic areas: 

  1. Minimizing toxicity to environment and to people  

  2. Enhancing biodiversity and habitats and land use awareness 

  3. Promoting energy efficiency 

  4. Optimizing waste management 

  5. Preventing negative impacts on soil 

  6. Preserving water availability 

  7. Avoiding nutrient pollution 

Access GLOBALG.A.P. standard documents

GLOBALG.A.P. standard documents are publicly available, free of charge, and translated into multiple languages. They are developed through a transparent and comprehensive standard setting process that involves stakeholders from across the supply chain and includes scientific and technical expertise, field trials, and public consultation.

Latest news

Image of a producer group inspecting crop health

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Banner image for the AGRAYA SUMMIT 2026 in Bologna, Italy

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Powering agricultural progress: What to expect at SUMMIT 2026

In October 2026, the global agriculture community will gather in Bologna for an event designed to do more than spark conversation – it is built to move the system forward.

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