Category: E

earthworm: An invertebrate animal with a long thin body divided into many segments, living in large numbers in the soil. Earthworms aerate the soil as they tunnel. They also eat organic matter and help increase the soil’s fertility. They help stabilize the soil structure by compressing material and mixing it with organic matter and calcium. It is believed that they also secrete a hormone which encourages rooting by plants. Earthworms are beneficial for farmers as they enhance soil fertility and structure, promoting healthy crop growth.

evapotranspire: To lose water into the atmosphere by evaporation and transpiration. Understanding evapotranspiration helps farmers manage irrigation and optimize water use for crops.

exploit: 1. To take advantage of something. Ladybirds have exploited the sudden increase in the numbers of insects. 2. To use a natural resource. Exploiting the natural wealth of the forest. 3. To treat something or someone unfairly for personal benefit. Understanding exploitation helps farmers manage resources sustainably and ethically.

EAGGF: Abbreviation for European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund. Farmers can benefit from the EAGGF by accessing financial support for agricultural improvements and sustainability projects.

environmental conditionality: Same as cross-compliance. Understanding environmental conditionality helps farmers meet sustainability standards and receive agricultural subsidies.

E: E symbol for “Excellent” in the EUROP carcass conformation classification system. This classification can help farmers understand and market the quality of their meat products more effectively.

Envirowise: A government program providing advice to businesses in industry and commerce on improving efficiency in the use of resources and reducing waste. Farmers can benefit from Envirowise by accessing advice on sustainable farming practices and resource management.

EFSA: Abbreviation for European Food Safety Authority. Farmers can benefit from EFSA guidelines to ensure food safety and meet regulatory standards.

EID: Abbreviation for electronic identification. Electronic identification helps farmers efficiently manage and track their livestock.

exotoxin: A poison produced by bacteria which affects parts of the body away from the place of infection. Understanding exotoxins helps farmers manage animal health and prevent disease spread.