In search of factors determining the participation of farmers in agri-environmental schemes – Does only money matter in Poland?

• The issue of Agri-Environmental Schemes (AES) in the eastern EU states has been rarely studied, while literature indicates that geographical location is important determinant participation AES. study was perfomed on a representative sample Polish farmers using data from interviews supplemented by financial Farm Accountancy Data Network. Participation AES Poland determined mostly factors related to economic interest farmers, however, also farmers' risk aversion significantly affects decisions. Greater farmer involvement pro-environmental practices requires stronger stimulation and/or actions towards increasing environmental awareness. growing awareness negative impact agriculture natural environment creates social expectation reduction this through activities farmers. Agri-environmental programmes are one key instruments agricultural policy aimed at encouraging do so. Due their voluntary nature and these activities, there scientific discussion for long time determining programmes. Numerous analyses carried out mainly Western European countries, not give unequivocal answers which influence agri-environmental measures, additionally might be different Central-Eastern Europe. This significant problem policymakers deciding distribution support. Our analysis 594 commercial farms, subsample FADN (Farm Network), uses both outcomes with Results show who see clear farm, most often participate (Agri-environmental Schemes). Risk turned an but analysed literature. On other hand, attitudes have small (if any) participation. information policymakers, as it educational needs terms understanding relationship between farming environment, moving away model incentives based would probably involve scale measures