Sectoral greenhouse gas emission mitigation possibilities. Why broad spectrum of indicators is applied

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agriculture account for 10 % of total greenhouse gas emissions in the European Union (EU). Mitigation potential of agriculture can be obtained from enhancement of avoidance and reduction of GHG emissions through management of land and livestock. The share of emissions from agriculture in different EU member states (EU MS) varies considerably in accordance with the significance and comparative magnitude of the agricultural sector. On a regular basis, EU MS data are collated regarding progress in development of agriculture and emission mitigation, using different indicators. The aim of this study is to analyse existing indicators used for the evaluation of impacts of agriculture on environment and propose a tool for assessment of GHG emissions mitigation measurements and assist stakeholders in decision making regarding production of agricultural products with a high added value. The research gives insight on how to achieve climate friendly agriculture. The proposed indicators can be used to evaluate GHG emissions mitigation measurements in agriculture. (C) 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.