Covalo project supports agroecology in France

The Covalo Hauts-de-France project is a financial initiative designed to support farmers who adopt agroecological practices, which focus on sustainable farming methods that protect the environment. It uses a payment for environmental services (PSE) system based on a regeneration index developed by the Pour une agriculture du vivant (PADV) association.

PSE payments vary by practice

Farmers participating in the Covalo program receive an average of 76 euros per hectare, which totals 14,200 euros per farm. The payment is calculated based on specific environmental practices and is divided into two categories: 26 euros per hectare for creating a new environmental service and 14 euros per hectare for maintaining it.

Project brings together multiple stakeholders

The Covalo initiative involves farmers, cooperatives, industrialists, distributors, funders, and public authorities. It combines public and private funding, with the Artois-Picardie Water Agency providing 1.2 million euros annually for five years. This collaboration aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices across different sectors.

Regeneration index guides the PSE system

The Covalo program uses a regeneration index (IR) developed by PADV to assess farms. This index evaluates factors such as soil work, nitrogen fertilization, soil cover, pesticide use, and biodiversity. Farmers must achieve a minimum score of 40 out of 100 to qualify for PSE payments.

Tool encourages both new and experienced farmers

According to Anne-Laure Rioualec, head of collective innovation programs at PADV, the regeneration index provides a scientific basis for diagnosing farms and tracking their progress in agroecology. The tool is designed to support both farmers already committed to sustainable practices and those just beginning their transition.

Future expansion of the PSE model

Two communes in the North, the European Metropolis of Lille and Douaisis agglo, are set to launch their own PSE programs using the regeneration index. PADV aims to replicate the model in other regions while adjusting the indicators to match local goals. The initiative also seeks to involve non-agricultural private actors in using the tool.