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This issue of the EU Rural Review explores some of the ways in which social and environmental sustainability can contribute to economic growth in Europe’s rural areas.

It highlights some of the particular opportunities for rural areas from the transition to the green economy, including through the move to the low-carbon economy and more sustainable farming and forestry. It also looks at practical aspects of green economy projects and how cooperation can help deliver improved outcomes.

Throughout, it considers how the Rural Development Programmes (RDPs) can best support efforts in these areas.

This issue highlights the value of the organic approach to agriculture and the rural economy, as well as its wider societal and environmental benefits. It further provides insight into the evolving European policy landscape - including a detailed profile of the European Commission’s Action Plan on the Future of Organic Production in Europe - and the course it is setting for the future of the sector.

The United Nations has declared 2014 the International Year of Family Farming, the primary aim of which is to promote, develop and strengthen all types of family-oriented agriculture as a socially valuable, economically viable and environmentally sustainable model.

Quality and organic products are a key part of the Common Agricultural Policy and an important objective of Rural Development policy.