Assessing Sustainable Agriculture in the EU/Baltic Countries Using Multi‐Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) and EUROSTAT Data Using Stakeholder's View

Ahmad Bathaei and Dalia Streimikiene

Sustainable Development, 2025, vol. 33, issue 5, 7429-7440

Abstract: The purpose of this research is to provide an evaluation of sustainable agricultural development in the Baltic countries (Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia), with contextual references to EU sustainability frameworks such as the Green Deal and Common Agricultural Policy. It uses MCDM approaches, namely the TOPSIS approach, in combination with statistical data obtained from EUROSTAT together with the survey data derived from experts. The methodology of the assessment of sustainability is provided through the environmental, economic, and social indicators. Soil health, water usage, fertilizer pollution, biodiversity, and the area of organic agriculture are chosen as indicators and extended by assigning a priority level according to the importance of sustainable agriculture. The study hence reaffirms that soil health is the most significant factor affecting crop production in the region and, as such, the need to embark on soil conservation measures. Utilization of water and careful control of fertilizer polluting the water is a major factor in future sustainability. This paper integrates theoretical information with empirical findings as a basis for comprehensive and evidence‐based recommendations and recommendations concerning the sustainable development of agriculture in the EU and the Baltic states may be provided. These findings highlight the experts' prioritization of environmental concerns—particularly soil health, water efficiency, and fertilizer pollution—as central to sustainable agriculture in the Baltic region.

Date: 2025
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https://doi.org/10.1002/sd.3529

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:wly:sustdv:v:33:y:2025:i:5:p:7429-7440

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