A comparative analysis of agri-environment schemes in China, Europe and US: Potential for improvement

Due to severe environmental issues and the need for sustainable agriculture, the market-based policy tool of agri-environment schemes (AES) are in high demand in China. With the Grain-for-Green Program (GFGP) being a compelling example, China has shown its determination to implement AES nationwide. However, the government’s efforts to address environmental impacts and efficient utilization of funds have faced massive criticisms, calling for urgent need to improve AES or AES-like programs in China. AES have been evolving progressively in developed regions like in Europe and US, where they first emerged. The goal of this paper is to compare the differences in the foundational basis of AES, design characteristics, explore examples of programs, policy and laws, and scientific basis of AES in China, Europe and US with an aim of providing directions for improvements in China. We review information from policies and existing AES studies which we analyze thematically and descriptively to draw insights. Findings show important gaps in governance and design mechanisms of AES programs in China, with its limited integration into the national agricultural policy and limited scientific guide compared to those in Europe and US. AES are an important concern in the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in Europe and the Farm Bill in the US. We recommend urgent attention to Chinese policy and scientific support to AES design to counter biodiversity loss, land degradation and climate change impacts in China. • Relationships of EC, PES and AES are clarified. • Comparisons of AES in China and in Europe and US are conducted from four important perspectives. • Gaps in governance, design and regulation of AES programs in China are identified. • Recommendations for potential AES improvement in China are provided.