Farmer Perspectives on the Economic, Environmental, and Social Sustainability of Environmental Conservation Agriculture (ECA) in Namobuddha Municipality, Kavre, Nepal

Keshav Maharjan, Clarisse Mendoza Gonzalvo and Manjeshwori Singh
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Clarisse Mendoza Gonzalvo: Department of Educational Communication, College of Development Communication, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Los Baños 4031, Philippines
Manjeshwori Singh: Nepal Development Research Institute, Lalitpur 44600, Nepal

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 11, 1-18

Abstract: The adoption of environmental conservation agriculture (ECA) in Nepal is aligned with the country’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045, as ECA practices have been proven to effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Nepal’s agricultural sector faces numerous challenges, including labor shortages, climate change impacts, and the necessity for environmentally friendly farming methods, making the adoption of ECA practices even more crucial. Thus, this paper explored farmer perspectives on the sustainability of ECA practices in the Namobuddha municipality, Nepal, which is renowned as a leading hub of organic farming. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, together with key informant interviews and onsite observations. By analyzing various farmer perspectives, the study presents an analytical framework that highlights the economic, environmental, and social pillars of ECA’s sustainability. The findings underscore the significance of economic viability for farmers, as damages to crops and farm products negatively drive their perception of ECA sustainability. Conversely, factors such as increased agriculture-related income, favorable prices, and sustainable productivity positively shape farmers’ perceptions. In terms of environmental sustainability, farmers prioritize enhancing the local and global environment, viewing their farming methods as climate-smart and actively working towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The study emphasizes the importance of strategic communication to effectively convey the benefits of ECA to rural communities. Overall, this research contributes to filling the knowledge gap concerning farmers’ perceptions of ECA sustainability. The insights gained from this study have the potential to inform policy decisions and promote the widespread adoption of environmentally friendly farming practices in Nepal.

Keywords: environmental conservation agriculture; organic farming; sustainable agriculture; farmer decision-making; sustainability pillars; economic sustainability; environmental sustainability; social sustainability (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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