Strengths
The majority of strengths identified in all countries were related to the positive environmental impacts of mixed farming systems (table below). Less reliance on external inputs, environmental and biodiversity benefits, more sustainable management of wastes and nutrient recycling were all identified as very positive outcomes of mixed farming.
A second category of strengths was associated with the farm business. For example, traceability benefits associated with producing feed on farm were identified in Wales and France; local marketing of products from mixed farm systems in France; potential to create unique products in Spain and Sweden; perceived lower economic risk, greater flexibility and more efficient use of labour in Poland. There was more diversity between countries with these farm business related strengths than there was with those related to the environment.
