Grasslands in Europe: current status, emerging challenges, and pathways to sustainable futures
摘要
Grasslands are a cornerstone of European agriculture, supporting both food security and a wide range of ecosystem services. Covering approximately one-third of the utilized agricultural area in Europe, grasslands contribute to a range of ecosystem services. Ruminants such as cattle, sheep, and goats can transform the feed source grass that is inedible to humans into highquality protein-rich foods, in the form of meat and milk. Grasslands also support biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling, water regulation, and cultural values, while sustaining rural economies and communities. Historically shaped by traditional farming practices such as grazing and haymaking, European grasslands have evolved into vital habitats and production landscapes.