Custodian farmers’ perspectives on improving Common Agricultural Policy payments for local-breed conservation in northern Italy

The purpose of this short communication is to draw attention to the issue of farmers’ perception of Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) payments for the conservation of livestock biodiversity. We gathered data through semi-structured interviews with a sample of nine farmers located in north-western Italy (Lombardy and Piedmont). Based on these interviews, we identified the main challenges of the current subsidy mechanisms, including bureaucratic complexity, insufficient financial support, and concerns about long-term dependency. The farmers emphasised the need for policy refinements, such as the improved allocation of funds, active conservation strategies (e.g. genetic improvement programmes) and market-oriented solutions (e.g. niche product development). This study highlights a discernible gap between short-term subsidies and sustainable breed conservation, underscoring the significance of community-based approaches and consumer awareness in enhancing economic viability. The necessity for participatory policy and customised support to align conservation objectives with farmers’ socioeconomic realities is emphasised, offering insights into more effective agrobiodiversity conservation within the CAP.