European Agriculture: From Tradition to Modernization

European Agriculture

Since the agricultural revolution began in the late 18th century, increased investment in machinery and research have resulted in modern, highly productive agricultural landscapes. Two main characteristics are:

• Mediterranean landscapes: Combine dry farming, generally low-yielding, devoted mainly to the traditional Mediterranean trilogy (olives, grapes, cereals), with irrigated agriculture.
• Central cereal landscapes: Characterized by high yields through mechanization and crop rotation.

The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)

The CAP determines the agricultural policies of member countries. Created 50 years ago, it was born when production did not cover population needs, forcing significant food imports. The CAP's main objectives were:

• Upgrade productivity to increase farm output.
• Achieve basic self-sufficiency in agricultural products at affordable prices for consumers.
• Guarantee farmers a reasonable standard of living.

The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP)

The EU is the third-largest fishing power globally. Through the CFP, the EU sets catch quotas for individual countries within established limits to prevent overfishing and protect the marine environment and threatened species. It also provides financial support to encourage aquaculture development and negotiates agreements with non-EU countries for fishing rights.

From Traditional to Modern Agriculture

Due to a slow process of modernization, domestic fields now feature modern farms geared for urban sales, alongside traditional agriculture where farming supports the family, with little surplus sold locally.

Spanish Agriculture and the CAP

Upon joining the EU, Spain made a significant effort to enhance the agricultural sector's productivity and competitiveness, focusing on higher quality products. Some farmers were forced to abandon unprofitable farms. However, EU membership has also been advantageous, with Spanish farmers benefiting from subsidies.

Underground Resources and Mining

Raw materials are elements found in nature that humans use for direct consumption. They have three origins: animal, vegetable, and mineral. Earth's minerals can be categorized as metallic, non-metallic, and energy minerals.

The Challenge: Avoiding Depletion

Resources can be renewable or non-renewable. Renewable resources are those that replenish or recover shortly after consumption. Conversely, non-renewable resources have limited supplies or very slow formation processes. Minerals are non-renewable; therefore, excessive use can lead to their exhaustion. Some minerals are recyclable, but others are not.