Compliance of the shredding and spreading of ungrazed or unmown grass residues in fields with good agricultural and environmental conditions

Priority question for written answer  P-001838/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Juozas Olekas (S&D)

Farmers use a simple, cost-effective and low-CO₂-footprint technology to maintain the condition of agricultural land, in particular natural grassland, by shredding and spreading ungrazed or unmown grass residues in fields.

This method is used in particular by beekeepers, who use their fields to grow melliferous plants for bees rather than to produce herbaceous forage.

Could the Commission indicate whether the shredding and spreading of ungrazed or unmown grass residues in fields is in compliance with good agricultural and environmental conditions, and whether direct payments should be made for areas thus cultivated?