Learning objectives
Provide an overview of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), its financing mechanism and its evolution towards more environmental.
Develop basic theoretical and practical skills related to modelling in mathematical programming, for analysing the impact of agricultural and agri-environmental policies at farm level.
Prerequisites
None
Course unit content
The course focuses on three main aspects:
- Agri-environmental policies and the need for ex-ante evaluation.
- The theory of mathematical programming.
- The development of mathematical programming models using commercially available software: excel and GAMS.
Full programme
The master's degree program Modelling Agricultural and Environmental Policies delves into the key topics related to the modeling of agricultural and environmental policies, with a particular focus on the European context and quantitative analysis tools. Below are the main topics covered:
1. The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and its funding mechanisms
The course examines the structure of the CAP, with particular attention to its funding mechanisms and the distribution of resources between the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (Pillar I) and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (Pillar II). The main objectives of the CAP and its economic implications for beneficiaries will be discussed.
2. The evolution of the CAP: from agricultural policy to agro-environmental policy
The course explores the transition of the CAP from a predominantly agricultural policy focused on competitiveness to one increasingly oriented towards environmental sustainability. It also covers the eco-schemes introduced to promote sustainable farming practices and ecosystem protection.
3. EU directives, National Strategic Plans, and ex-ante evaluation
Key EU directives and the role of National Strategic Plans in defining and implementing agro-environmental policies are analyzed. Special emphasis is placed on the importance of ex-ante evaluation to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of policies.
4. The theory of mathematical programming
An introduction to the fundamental concepts of mathematical programming, with specific applications to the agricultural and environmental sectors. The theoretical foundations required to understand and develop optimization models are presented.
5. Development of mathematical programming models
Students will learn how to develop and implement mathematical programming models using commercially available software, such as Excel and GAMS. They will be guided in problem analysis, model development, and interpretation of the obtained results.
Bibliography
- Kaiser, Harry Mason. (2011) Mathematical programming for agricultural, environmental, and resource economics / ISBN 978-0-470-59936-5 (hardback), John Wiley & Sons
- Quirino Paris, (2011) Economic Foundations of Symmetric Programming, Cambridge University Press.
- GAMS Manual https://www.gams.com/
Teaching methods
- Lectures
- Exercises
- Group work
Assessment methods and criteria
The written exam includes a theoretical section and a programming exercise using GAMS, with interpretation of the results.
Other information
The course includes computer-based exercises and students should bring their own PC.
2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
Goal 8: Decent work and economic growth
Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production
Goal 13: Combat climate change
Goal 15: Life on Earth.