Drivers and Barriers towards Social Farming: A Systematic Review

Concetta Nazzaro, Anna Uliano and Giuseppe Marotta
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Concetta Nazzaro: Department of Law, Economics, Management and Quantitative Methods, University of Sannio, 82100 Benevento, Italy
Anna Uliano: Department of Law, Economics, Management and Quantitative Methods, University of Sannio, 82100 Benevento, Italy
Giuseppe Marotta: Department of Law, Economics, Management and Quantitative Methods, University of Sannio, 82100 Benevento, Italy

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 24, 1-17

Abstract: Social farming (SF) spread across Europe in recent decades. It represents an expression of agriculture diversification and performs a social function expressed through vulnerable individuals’ social inclusion. As a result, SF is able to generate positive externalities and thus contribute to social wellbeing. Despite benefits, SF faces several issues related to its dissemination. Although in recent years scholars have been approaching this topic, much remains to be researched. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate, through a systematic review, drivers and barriers related to the spread of this phenomenon. Results showed that factors such as the lack of information on SF, farmers’ mental limitations and the lack of economic resources, as well as excessive bureaucratization, could hamper the spread of SF. On the other hand, ethical production, new income sources, sustainable rural development and new employment opportunities can encourage the dissemination of such practices. In order to overcome the barriers and emphasize the drivers pointed out by this study, the role of policymakers is essential, as they should promote information and training activities for farmers and consumers in order to increase awareness of SF social value and encourage a collective approach to SF practices.

Keywords: social farming; social needs; sustainability; value creation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (8)

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