A Model for Evaluating the Multifunctionality of Agriculture in Slovenia

The primary aim of the present paper is to introduce a model which permits relevant, actual and continuous monitoring of the multifunctionality of agriculture in Slovenia and, using the model, to evaluate to what extent key elements of multifunctional agriculture were in fact influenced by recent agricultural policy goals and measures. Said evaluation was performed on various “multifunctionality elements” using available statistical data for the period examined. Based on selected socio-economic and spatial indicators, together with indicators of biological diversity, the model provides an efficient tool for assessing the effectiveness of agricultural policy and its impact on the different functions of agriculture. To evaluate the various multifunctionality elements of agriculture and to assess the effect of agricultural policy measures, the model comprises a qualitative assessment, quantitative assessment and the application of indicators of multifunctionality. Based on the collected set of production, environmental and social indicators used, the study points to an increased multifunctional role of agriculture and agricultural policy in Slovenia. The results furthermore show that the goals of agricultural policy in the period 1994-2004 were achieved to a great extent and that the multifunctional attitude of agriculture in Slovenia is increasing