A comparison of CAPRI and SEAMLESS-IF as integrated modelling systems

Abstract

SEAMLESS-IF and CAPRI are both integrated agricultural modelling systems for policy impact assessment at EU level, linking model components across scales and between the economic and bio-physical domains. However, the overall design, focus and representation of agricultural sub-systems vary between them. This chapter describes and compares the main characteristics of SEAMLESS-IF and CAPRI, looking at objectives, concepts for database and model linking, modelling approaches at farm level and technology representation, agri-environmental indicators and baseline construction for forward looking impact assessment. Observed differences in these areas follow from SEAMLESS-IF focusing on field and farm level components stressing bio-economic interrelations and technological innovation, whereas CAPRI adopts a more market oriented perspective with full coverage of EU policies. Software design in SEAMLESS-IF is shaped by flexible component integration and a strong client oriented graphical user interface. CAPRI instead stresses simulation performance and exploitation of results by modellers. © 2010 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.