Use of Technological Tools in the Development of
  Simplified Methodology for Assessing the Results of
 Biodiversity Conservation through the Implementation
   of Agri-environmental Policies. The “Result - Base
    Payment Schemes” Model in Troodos – Cyprus -
                       Abstract

                 Dimitris Michalakis1, Dimitra Gaki2, Ioannis Faraslis2
      1
       Management Body of Karla - Mavrovouni – Kefalovriso Velestino - Delta Pineiou,
                      Greece; e-mail: dmichalakis@gmail.com
                            2
                             University of Thessaly, Greece



Summary

   The implementation of environmentally friendly policies contributes, through the
rational use of the natural environment, in maintaining the biodiversity of a territory.
The EU's current Agri-environmental policies are based on the implementation of
management-based schemes on a European scale, which do not take into account
national and local specificity. The implementation of a model that will be based on
achieving measurable result goals is based on the precondition that in order to
finance integrated productive activities, it will be necessary to certify the
achievement of biodiversity indicators, which consequently certify the quality of the
environment. One such model is the "Result Base Agri-environment Payment
Schemes” - RBAPS. A model that, while requiring more effort to design and
develop, produces better tracking data. The RBAPS model is based on a grading
system that depicts the biodiversity per parcel and provides greater freedom for
farmers to decide how to manage their land and therefore take more responsibility for
their results.
   The announcement aims to present simplified methodology that was developed
using: a) high-tech tools (satellite data, specialized software, for the production of
thematic maps), b) data on biodiversity species (protected species -Standard Data
Forms SDF) c) local traditional knowledge and management practices and d)
categories of production systems, to create result indicators and how monitoring
locally the RBPS model application. A key element of the methodology is the
mapping of High Nature Value (HNV) farmland and farming systems. This
procedure follows the classification of land cover and farming systems using
temporal multispectral high spatial resolution satellite data (Copernicus Sentinel 2).
For the preprocessing and the post processing of satellite and other geospatial data,
open source sophisticated software, like SNAP (Sentinel Application Platform) and
QGIS were used. The classification system follows the European Corine Land Cover




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(CLC) nomenclature. Sophisticated classification algorithm were implemented
(random forest classifier) in order to create high precision thematic maps. The above
mention data were correlated with spatial distribution in-situ Natura data in order to
create thematic maps concerning the different types of species and habitats in the
High Nature Value farmland. The analysis of these geospatial data contribute to the
delimitation of the High Nature Value farmland within which elements of
biodiversity habitats and species exist.
    The following methodology for implementing the RBPS model focused on High
Nature Value farmland and farming systems that are located in or between areas of
the NATURA 2000 Network and operate as pressures mitigation zones or as
communication corridors of NATURA 2000 network areas. In addition, it ends up in
the formulation of an adjusted indicator guide, monitoring mechanism and control of
the result indicators. The proposed methodology highlights the skills of the producer,
the possibilities of interconnecting the local farming system with the sustainability of
the place and transforming the biodiversity, in a territorial resource.
    Finally, the implementation of the RBPS model by incorporating elements of the
local cultural heritage can also function as a tool for territorial development, offering
connection to the place and added value to the resources of a territory and supporting
its farming systems.

       Keywords: RBPS model; High Nature Value farmland and farming systems;
       sustainability.

       JEL Codes: Q26, M35; L12.




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