New EU Legislation Targets Reduction of Farm Emissions
A revised version of the European Union’s industrial emissions regulations took effect on July 4, broadening their scope to include more livestock farms than before.
The European Commission has revealed that the new directive, known as IED 2.0, now covers the most significant sources of pollution from pig and poultry farms, which contribute approximately 30% of the EU’s total ammonia emissions. The legislation has generated debate among farming groups and right-wing political factions, who are opposed to imposing the same environmental standards on farms as those applied to industries like battery plants and steel production.
Under the updated rules, pig farms with over 350 livestock units (LSU)—equivalent to about 1,100 adult pigs or 700 breeding female pigs—are now included. Exemptions apply to organic pig production and extensive farming, where animals primarily roam outdoors. Previously, the regulations targeted farms with more than 2,000 pigs and 750 sows.
For poultry, the threshold remains at 280 LSU or 40,000 meat chickens. However, egg-producing farms now face enhanced regulations starting from 21,400 laying hens. Although the Commission proposed including cattle in the directive, the European Parliament successfully negotiated its exclusion in the final version. Nonetheless, a report on pollution from cow farms, which are responsible for 50% of the EU’s methane emissions and 25% of ammonia emissions, is expected by the end of 2026.
While the revised directive affects more farms, environmental advocates caution that IED 2.0 might lead to regulatory leniency. The directive allows EU nations to implement a “lighter regulatory regime,” which means they can opt for simpler registration procedures instead of more demanding full permits. Additionally, the law grants individuals the right to seek compensation for health issues caused by unlawful pollution, while introducing stricter financial penalties for companies—penalties could reach at least 3% of their annual EU turnover for severe violations. Authorities also have the power to suspend farms not in compliance, although necessary animal care activities are allowed to continue.
The Commission has two years to formulate detailed operational guidelines in cooperation with farming representatives, member state officials, and NGOs. The new regulations will be enforced for the largest impacted farms by 2030 and for the remaining farms by 2032.
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John Peterson graduated with a degree in Agricultural Sciences from Wageningen University in the Netherlands. His specialization is in sustainable crop production and soil health management. John is passionate about integrating modern technology with traditional farming methods to enhance productivity while preserving the environment. He currently works as a consultant, helping farmers adopt sustainable practices.