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ACRES

Pillar 2

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General Overview:

Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) is Ireland’s latest agri-environment climate initiative under the country’s CAP Strategic Plan (CSP). This is a flagship environmental program within Ireland’s 2023-2027 CAP Plan and aims to combat biodiversity decline while providing income support to a target of 50,000 farm families across Ireland. 

Phased Rollout:

ACRES will roll out in phases, with a minimum of two tranches. All valid applications submitted for Tranche 1 have been accepted into the scheme, and the contracts commenced on the 1st of January 2023. Tranche 2 was announced on the 24th of November 2023 and had a target of an additional 4,000 participants. This was made possible by securing additional funding under budget 2024. 

Scheme Specific Details:

ACRES General and Acres Co. Operative.  

There are two ACRES branches in which you can apply for. Both carry their own set of requirements. 

1. General: Available nationally (outside of the high priority geographical area defined for the ACRES Co-operation approach) and offers a range of actions for individual farmers, both targeted and general. 

You may only apply for the ACRES General if your holding falls outside of the high priority geographical area as defined for the ACRES Co-operation approach. 

2. Co-operation: Available to farmers in defined high priority geographical areas and involves results-based payments as well as bespoke farm and landscape actions. Contracts have been awarded for the management of Co-operation Projects (CP), and farmers will be supported by new teams, who will develop local action plans for their zones. 

You may only apply for the ACRES Co-operation approach if you have 3 hectares or more or 20% or more of your farm holding – whichever is the lower – declared as forage/habitat in the 2021 Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) within ACRES Co-operation area. 

Both approaches require the preparation of a Farm Sustainability Plan to be completed and submitted by an ACRES approved Agricultural advisor.

Budget:

Total allocated ACRES budget for CSP 2023–2027: €1.5billion 

Resources:

ACRES 2025 Information

ACRES 2025 Information

Apr 7, 2025 | ACRES Resources, Publications

To learn more about ACRES, please visit the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s website. 

To read about the terms and conditions, see this link:

Learn More
Terms & Conditions

Resources:

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CAP Network Ireland is co-funded by the European Union and the Government of Ireland Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

Innovation and Research for Sustainable Solutions

Climate change poses evolving challenges, and a commitment to continuous innovation and research is crucial for identifying and implementing effective strategies. This forward-looking perspective ensures that mitigation and adaptation plans remain adaptive and resilient to changing environmental conditions.

Community Engagement and Awareness

Addressing climate change requires collective efforts and awareness at all levels of society. Engaging communities and fostering a greater understanding of climate issues can enhance the effectiveness of both mitigation and adaptation measures.

Interconnected Nature of Mitigation and Adaptation

Highlighting that a successful climate strategy involves not only reducing emissions (mitigation) but also actively preparing for and responding to the impacts of climate change (adaptation). This underscores the need for a balanced and integrated approach.

Community Engagement

Involving local communities in agricultural decision-making processes fosters a sense of shared responsibility and ensures that farming practices align with cultural values and community needs. Collaborative initiatives can include community-supported agriculture programs and educational outreach. 

Permaculture

Permaculture principles guide the design of agricultural systems by mimicking natural ecosystems. This approach fosters diversity, resilience, and self-sufficiency. Permaculture systems often involve companion planting, agroforestry, and other techniques that prioritise long-term sustainability. 

Soil Health

Practices that promote soil health are integral to sustainable agriculture. Cover cropping helps prevent soil erosion, crop rotation mitigates nutrient depletion, and reduced tillage maintains soil structure. Healthy soil is a cornerstone of productive and sustainable farming. 

Sustainable Materials

Selecting sustainable and locally sourced materials for construction aligns with the principles of green architecture. This includes using recycled materials, low-impact construction methods, and eco-friendly building designs to minimize the environmental footprint of agricultural infrastructure. 

Smart Technology

The integration of smart technologies in agriculture, such as sensors, drones, and data analytics, enables farmers to make data-informed decisions. Precision agriculture, for example, allows for targeted resource application, optimizing the use of water, fertilizers, and pesticides. 

Waste Management

Effective waste management is critical for reducing the environmental impact of agricultural activities. Composting organic waste and recycling materials help close the nutrient loop, creating a more sustainable and circular approach to farming.

Biodiversity

The CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) prioritises the creation of diverse and ecologically rich landscapes. Preserving natural habitats, planting cover crops, and avoiding the use of harmful chemicals foster a balanced ecosystem. Biodiversity not only enhances the resilience of the agricultural environment but also contributes to pest control and pollination. 

Water Conservation

Water-efficient irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation and precision watering techniques, are essential components of green agriculture. Additionally, capturing and utilizing rainwater through rainwater harvesting systems can supplement water resources, particularly in regions prone to water scarcity. 

Renewable Energy

Integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, not only reduces the reliance on fossil fuels but also contributes to a more sustainable and resilient energy supply for agricultural operations. This transition towards clean energy aligns with broader efforts to combat climate change. 

Resource Efficiency

This involves designing agricultural structures and systems with a focus on minimising resource inputs while maximising output. Efficient use of water, energy, and land is crucial in optimising productivity and reducing the environmental footprint of agricultural activities. 

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