This research investigates the implementation of multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) within the framework of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) for the period of 2023–2027, focusing on optimizing agricultural sustainability and profitability in Northern Greece. Using data from three farmer groups across Central and Western Macedonia, the study explores the application of MCDA models within three distinct case studies: the first optimizes a farm system focused on input minimization (Loudias), while the second and third (Ryakio and Agia Paraskevi) adopt a more comprehensive approach to farm management. More specifically, the first case focused on maximizing gross margin, minimizing variable costs, and reducing fertilizer use without targeting a reduction in water usage. By contrast, the second case study adopted a holistic approach to farm management, integrating water conservation in the Ryakio farmer group. The third included the requirement to keep arable land fallow in the Agia Paraskevi farmer group, reflecting the CAP’s new mandates. The results indicate that MCDA facilitates strategic crop selection and land changes that significantly enhance farm management efficiency and sustainability. The optimization led to more significant percentage increases in gross margin for the second (Ryakio) and third (Agia Paraskevi) case studies compared to the first, with the Agia Paraskevi group showing the most substantial improvement.

This study assesses the technical efficiency of dairy farms in the Region of Thessaly in Greece and explores the impact of cooperative participation on farm performance. The research is motivated by the need to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of the livestock sector, particularly considering evolving economic and environmental challenges. The analysis is based on primary data collected at the farm level from 43 dairy cattle farms, of which 20 are formally registered members of recognized dairy cooperatives and 23 operate independently as non-cooperative farms. Technical efficiency was estimated using an output-oriented Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model with bootstrap correction. The findings indicate that cooperative farms demonstrate significantly higher technical efficiency, with an average score of 0.92, compared to 0.76 for non-cooperative farms. This efficiency gap is likely attributable to improved access to infrastructure, specialized knowledge, and broader market integration among cooperative members. The results underscore the importance of organizational structures in shaping farm-level productivity and support the case for targeted policies that reinforce cooperative frameworks. Overall, the study contributes to the literature on agricultural efficiency and offers actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners in the primary sector.

Farmers face financial challenges due to changing input costs and market prices, making risk assessment an important tool for decision-making. This study uses scenario analysis to examine how different economic conditions affect farm profitability. Economic data were collected from producers in Agia Paraskevi, Kozani and three scenarios were created to show how changes in costs and revenue impact profits. The results show that farm profits change significantly depending on market conditions. In the pessimistic scenario, net profit dropped by 35.36%, while in the optimistic scenario, it increased by 32.64%. These findings highlight the need for careful cost management, financial planning, and flexible decision-making to keep farms profitable. Although farms remained profitable in all cases, unexpected price changes and higher costs create challenges. This study shows that scenario analysis can help both farmers and policymakers make better decisions and manage financial risks in agriculture.