AGRICULTURAL WASTE IN EU AND ROMANIA WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF ADVANCING BIOECONOMIC GROWTH

Abstract

Waste management in agriculture is crucial for both resource utilization and environmental preservation. This analysis aims to explore and contrast the volume of waste generated from agricultural activities in Europe and Romania between 2014 and 2020. By delving into available data, the goal is to highlight variations in waste production and identify differences in management approaches at both EU and national levels. Special attention is given to assessing the impact on the populace by analyzing waste generation per person and its relation to agricultural land, thus grasping the challenges and trends in waste management comprehensively. This insight is pivotal in the bioeconomy landscape, where population growth drives up demand for food and agricultural products, intensifying agricultural activities and, consequently, increasing agricultural waste. The study underscores a decline in waste volume across the EU by 2020 compared to 2014, mirrored by a similar reduction of 20% in Romania. Romania's per capita waste output nearly doubles the EU average in 2020. Variations in waste volume among European countries underscore the influence of agricultural practices, technological levels, and regulatory frameworks. For instance, the Netherlands, with its intensive practices, produces significant agricultural waste, while France, with efficient practices and stringent management policies, generates less. Effective agricultural waste management demands tailored, integrated approaches suited to each country's specificities. Support for agricultural practices, resource allocation for efficient waste management technologies, and the establishment of clear standards are essential for mitigating environmental impact and fostering sustainable agricultural sector development.