The Walloon Minister for Agriculture and Rural Affairs has approved the ministerial decree implementing the European GAEC 5 obligation. The measure, which comes fully into force on 1 January 2027, marks a shift in philosophy: protecting soil while allowing crops to continue.
With the implementation of GAEC 5, Wallonia aims to limit diffuse erosion of farmland, which is being worsened by the increase in heavy rainfall and extreme weather events, while sustainably preserving the productivity of plots.
Under development since 2023, the scheme has been thoroughly revised by the Minister for Agriculture, Anne-Catherine Dalcq.
The new version is based on a simple principle: it is not about banning crops, but about defining the conditions under which they can be maintained when an erosion risk is identified.
The aim is to ensure the continuity of agricultural activity, subject to targeted adjustments.
This development is the result of a lengthy consultation process with all representative organisations.
This has led to a revision of the erosion mapping, the development of a toolbox tailored to conditions on the ground, and enhanced support for the farmers concerned.