# Low-Carbon Certification Systems in Agriculture: A Review
## 3 Existing Low-Carbon Certification Systems
### Comparison of Existing European Low-Carbon Certification Systems  
The European low-carbon certification systems are strongly related to the EU's common agricultural policy [70]. Launched in 1962, CAP is a partnership between agriculture and society and between Europe and its farmers. It aims to support farmers and improve agricultural productivity, ensuring a stable supply of affordable food; safeguard European Union farmers to make a reasonable living; help tackle climate change and the sustainable management of natural resources; maintain rural areas and landscapes across the EU; and keep the rural economy alive by promoting jobs in farming, agri-food industries, and associated sectors. CAP is managed and funded from the resources of the EU's budget. The CAP 2023-27 entered into force on 1 January 2023, supports farmers and rural stakeholders across the 27 EU countries, based on its legal framework and the choices detailed in the approved strategic plans [71]. The design and implementation of eco-schemes are key factors in determining whether the new CAP will lead to a more efficient environmental performance and meet the targets of the Green Deal [72; 73]. In this context, low-carbon certification systems in agriculture are not only more numerous but also more advanced in the European Union (EU) compared to other regions. This is mainly due to recently introduced climate- and agricultural-based strategies/frameworks such as the Farm to Fork strategy (a core part of the Green Deal) and the Carbon Removal and Carbon Farming (CRCF) framework [74; 75]. These initiatives establish quality standards for voluntary GHG certification schemes and actively support their development. Furthermore, substantial financial incentives through eco-schemes and direct payments have encouraged their widespread adoption. The EU's robust infrastructure for monitoring, reporting, verification, and certification (MRV-C) improves the credibility of these systems, although the resulting administrative complexity may present challenges for some farmers and producers [20].  
Within this framework, the European-based low-carbon certifications, namely, Solagro, Label bas carbone/LCL, LEAF Marque Standard, and Wineries for Climate Protection (WfCP), are all initiatives that aim to promote sustainable practices within the agricultural sector and have several similarities and differences (Table 1). In terms of similarities, they all emphasize environmental stewardship and encourage sustainable farming practices. They address important aspects such as resource management, reduction in GHG emissions, and biodiversity conservation. Moreover, they all provide recognizable certification or labeling systems that allow consumers to identify agricultural products or farms that meet certain sustainability standards and contribute to raising awareness towards sustainable agriculture.  
Regarding differences, the Solagro certification, the oldest among the systems compared, is an initiative that provides expertise and support for sustainable agriculture and renewable energy solutions. It focuses on promoting agroecology, energy efficiency, and sustainable land use practices. Moreover, the newest LCL is an official certification scheme managed by the French Ministry for Ecological Transition that primarily evaluates and certifies emission reductions in various sectors, including agriculture. The LEAF Marque Standard emphasizes Integrated Farm Management (IFM) principles and takes into account aspects such as biodiversity, soil health, water management, and energy efficiency. The WfCP standard provides wineries with a structured approach to assess, mitigate, and manage their environmental impact, focusing on key areas such as GHG emissions, water conservation, waste management, and biodiversity preservation.