Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
Associate Professor, Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan, Mollasani, Iran
2
Assistant Professor, Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture and Rural Development Engineering, Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan, Mollasani, Iran
3
Ph. D. Graduate, Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
Abstract
Introduction
Organic rice production helps improve human health by eliminating chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers and reduces the risks of using these harmful substances. Organic agriculture also helps protect the environment by reducing soil and water pollution and preserving biodiversity. Research in this area can increase public awareness of the benefits of organic products and encourage people to consume more of these products. In addition, the development of organic agriculture helps improve the economic situation of farmers, reduce dependence on chemical inputs, and strengthen agricultural sustainability. Such research can have widespread effects on improving the quality of human life and the environment. Therefore, in line with this important issue, the present study was conducted with the general aim of investigating the factors affecting the willingness of rice farmers in Shushtar County to cultivate organic rice.
Materials and methods
The statistical population of the study comprised all rice farmers in Shushtar City. Using the Krejci and Morgan table, the sample size was determined to be 388 individuals. The samples were selected through a stratified sampling method with proportional assignment. The primary research tool was a questionnaire, which was validated by a panel of experts and its reliability confirmed through Cronbach's alpha coefficient and composite reliability. Data analysis was conducted in two parts: descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS software.
Research findings:
The results indicated a positive and significant relationship between the variables of education, social norms, environmental concern, social responsibility, social capital, environmental attitude, and government support and facilities. Furthermore, the results of comparing the means revealed a significant difference in the willingness of rice farmers based on the variable of membership in organizations. Rice farmers who were members of organizations showed a greater tendency toward organic farming. In addition, the regression results showed that environmental attitude, social capital, and ethical norms have a positive and significant effect on rice farmers' willingness to cultivate organic rice. These three variables explained 61.7% of the variance in the rice farmers' willingness.
Conclusion
In this study, individual, economic, and social factors affecting rice farmers' willingness to cultivate organic rice were examined. The results showed that three factors, environmental attitude, social capital, and ethical norms, had the greatest impact in this regard.
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