The certification of the National Quality System for Animal Welfare ( SQNBA ) is finally about to get underway, the regulatory process of which was initiated with the Interministerial Decree of 2 August 2022.This voluntary certification system represents a fundamental step towards accessing the incentives provided for by the new CAP 2023-2027 , in particular within Ecoschema 1 – Level 2 , which rewards farmers who adopt improved practices compared to the minimum legal standards in terms of animal welfare.
At the same time, it constitutes a strategic tool for companies in the food sector to enhance their commitment to animal welfare and sustainability , allowing them to position themselves in a distinctive way on the market compared to the competition.
The technical specifications are ready and the control plans are about to be published .
Currently SQNBA is applicable to bovine breeding – both for milk and meat production – and pig breeding – for this species the certification is applicable only for the outdoor breeding method.
At the same time, the recognition procedures of the certification bodies that have submitted an accreditation request to ACCREDIA, among which CSQA is present, are being concluded.
Below is the list of approved specifications:
- PIG - Fattening pigs (over 50 kg) free-range
- BOVINO - Dairy cattle in the stable
- BOVINO - Beef cattle breeding stall
- BOVINE - Family-run cattle (farms with up to 50 heads / raised to 90 heads in mountain areas)
- BOVNO - Cattle raised with or entirely on pasture
PROCEDURE TO ACCESS CAP INCENTIVES
Breeders interested in accessing CAP aid linked to Ecoschema 1 – Level 2 must take action on two fronts:- Submit the unified application for aid to the Paying Agency competent for the territory, following the timing and methods indicated by AGEA Coordination.
- Apply to join the SQNBA. The certification obtained will be a fundamental requirement to demonstrate compliance with the criteria set out in the Ecoschema and therefore to access the related payments.