Challenges of using models for monitoring and assessing GHG emissions of European farms

This policy brief examines the challenges and opportunities associated with the use of models for Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) of greenhouse gas emissions and soil organic carbon in European agriculture.

Drawing on experiences from more than 200 farms involved in the ClieNFarms project, the document compares farm assessment tools, process-based models and field measurements. Results demonstrate that tool selection, parameterisation, data availability and sampling strategies significantly influence assessment outcomes.

The brief highlights the importance of using Tier 3 process-based models combined with field measurements for soil organic carbon assessments, while simpler farm-level tools may be appropriate for non-CO₂ emissions. It also stresses the need for clear protocols, farmer support, training and appropriate policy frameworks to ensure reliable and comparable climate assessments.