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21 pages, 1788 KiB  
Article
Investigation, Prospects, and Economic Scenarios for the Use of Biochar in Small-Scale Agriculture in Tropical
by Vinicius John, Ana Rita de Oliveira Braga, Criscian Kellen Amaro de Oliveira Danielli, Heiriane Martins Sousa, Filipe Eduardo Danielli, Newton Paulo de Souza Falcão, João Guerra, Dimas José Lasmar and Cláudia S. C. Marques-dos-Santos
Agriculture 2025, 15(15), 1700; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15151700 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study investigates the production and economic feasibility of biochar for smallholder and family farms in Central Amazonia, with potential implications for other tropical regions. The costs of construction of a prototype mobile kiln and biochar production were evaluated, using small-sized biomass from [...] Read more.
This study investigates the production and economic feasibility of biochar for smallholder and family farms in Central Amazonia, with potential implications for other tropical regions. The costs of construction of a prototype mobile kiln and biochar production were evaluated, using small-sized biomass from acai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) agro-industrial residues as feedstock. The biochar produced was characterised in terms of its liming capacity (calcium carbonate equivalence, CaCO3eq), nutrient content via organic fertilisation methods, and ash analysis by ICP-OES. Field trials with cowpea assessed economic outcomes, as well scenarios of fractional biochar application and cost comparison between biochar production in the prototype kiln and a traditional earth-brick kiln. The prototype kiln showed production costs of USD 0.87–2.06 kg−1, whereas traditional kiln significantly reduced costs (USD 0.03–0.08 kg−1). Biochar application alone increased cowpea revenue by 34%, while combining biochar and lime raised cowpea revenues by up to 84.6%. Owing to high input costs and the low value of the crop, the control treatment generated greater net revenue compared to treatments using lime alone. Moreover, biochar produced in traditional kilns provided a 94% increase in net revenue compared to liming. The estimated externalities indicated that carbon credits represented the most significant potential source of income (USD 2217 ha−1). Finally, fractional biochar application in ten years can retain over 97% of soil carbon content, demonstrating potential for sustainable agriculture and carbon sequestration and a potential further motivation for farmers if integrated into carbon markets. Public policies and technological adaptations are essential for facilitating biochar adoption by small-scale tropical farmers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Converting and Recycling of Agroforestry Residues)
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24 pages, 861 KiB  
Article
Nutrition Security and Homestead Gardeners: Evidence from the Himalayan Mountain Region
by Nirmal Kumar Patra, Nich Nina, Tapan B. Pathak, Tanmoy Karak and Suresh Chandra Babu
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2499; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152499 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 137
Abstract
Background: Addressing undernutrition and malnutrition requires a multi-pronged approach targeting different populations with appropriate interventions. Knowledge and perception (K&P) of Individuals and communities about nutrition to human health relationship/continuum is a prerequisite for addressing malnutrition in rural and mountain communities. Assessing K&P [...] Read more.
Background: Addressing undernutrition and malnutrition requires a multi-pronged approach targeting different populations with appropriate interventions. Knowledge and perception (K&P) of Individuals and communities about nutrition to human health relationship/continuum is a prerequisite for addressing malnutrition in rural and mountain communities. Assessing K&P is essential for developing strategic interventions to up-scaling K&P of communities and achieving nutrition security. Homestead gardens are a proven intervention for achieving nutrition security for all family members of gardeners. Methods: This paper includes homestead gardeners from the Himalayan Mountain Region (HMR) as respondents. We developed a scale to assess the K&P of respondents, based on ratings from 20 judges. A total of 134 issues/items have been retained in the scale from macronutrients, micronutrients, minerals, and vitamins. A framework has also been developed and adopted for the study. A knowledge and perception index (KPI) has been developed based on the respondents’ responses. We have reviewed and analysed the national policy interventions for augmenting the K&P of the study community to achieve nutrition security. Results: The nutrition K&P of respondents are inadequate and far from the desirable level. Policy review and analysis indicate that the creation of K&P in the community to contribute to self and family nutrition security was previously highly neglected. Conclusions: The policy process of national, state, and county/district-level development sectors in developing countries under the HMR may take the initiative to ensure self-nutrition security by creating K&P of the community on nutrition issues. The designed scale is prudent requires testing and validation for measuring farmers’ K&P on nutrition, which may be adopted in future studies and policymaking not only nationally but also from an international perspective. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutritional Policies and Education for Health Promotion)
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14 pages, 283 KiB  
Article
Between the Farm and Family: A Cross-Sectional Survey on Work–Family Conflict in Farmers in Ireland
by Siobhán O’Connor, Anna Donnla O’Hagan, Hannah Casey, Annie O’Connor, Mark Creegan, Alison Stapleton, Louise McHugh, Tomás Russell and Sinéad O’Keeffe
Agriculture 2025, 15(15), 1587; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15151587 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 313
Abstract
Farming is a uniquely demanding occupation, with family and work often deeply intertwined. Whilst this integration is common amongst the agricultural sector in Ireland (99.7% farms classified as family), it can lead to a conflict of responsibilities, but this has not been examined [...] Read more.
Farming is a uniquely demanding occupation, with family and work often deeply intertwined. Whilst this integration is common amongst the agricultural sector in Ireland (99.7% farms classified as family), it can lead to a conflict of responsibilities, but this has not been examined to date. Therefore, this study aimed to examine work–family conflict (WFC) in farmers in Ireland, and if WFC differs based on socio-demographic factors, mental health, social support and farm-specific stressors. A cross-sectional study examined WFC in 446 farmers in Ireland. Depression, anxiety, stress, suicidality, general mental health, psychological flexibility, cognitive fusion, self-experience, perceived social support, farm stress and attachment were also measured. Participants reported moderately high levels of WFC (25.1 ± 7.2). Being younger, male, having children aged 5 years or less, higher reported working hours on the farm, higher farm-specific stressors, and lower psychological flexibility contributed to higher WFC. In addition, lower social support, mental health and psychological skills were significantly associated with higher WFC. Future research should consider the integrated nature of work and family in farm life and use a qualitative approach to further understand gendered experiences of WFC. Full article
30 pages, 1679 KiB  
Review
Advancing Circularity in Small-Scale Rural Aquaponics: Potential Routes and Research Needs
by Laura Silva, Francisco Javier Martinez-Cordero, Gösta Baganz, Daniela Baganz, Ariadne Hernández-Pérez, Eva Coronado and Maria Celia Portella
Resources 2025, 14(8), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14080119 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 692
Abstract
Small-scale fisheries and aquaculture play a crucial role in securing food, income, and nutrition for millions, especially in the Global South. Rural small-scale aquaculture (SSA) is characterized by limited investment and technical training among farmers, diversification and dispersion of farms over large areas, [...] Read more.
Small-scale fisheries and aquaculture play a crucial role in securing food, income, and nutrition for millions, especially in the Global South. Rural small-scale aquaculture (SSA) is characterized by limited investment and technical training among farmers, diversification and dispersion of farms over large areas, reduced access to competitive markets for inputs and products, and family labor. Small-scale integrated circular aquaponic (ICAq) systems, in which systems’ component outputs are transformed into component inputs, have significant potential to increase circularity and promote economic development, especially in a rural context. We offer an integrated and comprehensive approach centered on aquaponics or aquaponic farming for small-scale aquaculture units. It aims to identify and describe a series of circular processes and causal links that can be implemented based on deep study in SSA and ICAq. Circular processes to treat by-products in ICAq include components like composting, vermicomposting, aerobic and anaerobic digestion, silage, and insect production. These processes can produce ICAq inputs such as seedling substrates, plant fertilizers, bioenergy, or feed ingredients. In addition, the plant component can supply therapeutic compounds. Further research on characterization of aquaponic components outputs and its quantifications, the impact of using circular inputs generated within the ICAq, and the technical feasibility and economic viability of circular processes in the context of SSA is needed. Full article
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36 pages, 3151 KiB  
Article
Floristic Diversity and Stand Structure of Tree Species in Historical Rubber Plantations (Hevea brasiliensis Wild ex A. Juss) in Sankuru, DR Congo: Implications for Biodiversity Conservation
by Joël Mobunda Tiko, Serge Shakanye Ndjadi, Jean Pierre Azenge, Yannick Useni Sikuzani, Lebon Aganze Badesire, Prince Baraka Lucungu, Maurice Kesonga Nsele, Julien Bwazani Balandi, Jémima Lydie Obandza-Ayessa, Josué Muganda Matabaro, Jean Pierre Mate Mweru, Olivia Lovanirina Rakotondrasoa and Jean Pierre Meniko To Hulu
Conservation 2025, 5(3), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/conservation5030037 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 530
Abstract
The rubber plantations in Sankuru province, located in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), have historically been pivotal to the regional economy. However, the absence of suitable silvicultural practices has promoted self-regeneration, resulting in the proliferation of diverse species. This study aims to [...] Read more.
The rubber plantations in Sankuru province, located in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), have historically been pivotal to the regional economy. However, the absence of suitable silvicultural practices has promoted self-regeneration, resulting in the proliferation of diverse species. This study aims to characterize species richness and plant structure of these plantations. To this end, 80 subplots measuring 0.25 hectares were meticulously established, with a proportionate division between state-owned and farmer plantations. The results obtained from this study indicate that these plantations are home to approximately 105 species, classified into 33 distinct botanical families, with dominant families such as Fabaceae, Meliaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Olacaceae, Clusiaceae, and Moraceae. Despite the similarity between the two types of plantations (Cs = 58%), significant disparities were observed in terms of individuals, 635 ± 84.06 and 828 ± 144.62 (p < 10−3); species, 41 ± 7.49 and 28 ± 4.59 (p < 10−3); families, 19 ± 3.06 and 16 ± 1.62 (p < 10−2); and basal area, 29.88 ± 5.8 and 41.37 ± 7.57 (p < 10−2) for state and peasant plantations, respectively. State plantations exhibited greater diversity (H′ = 1.87) and enhanced equity (J’ = 0.43) than peasant plantations. The diametric structure exhibited an inverted J-shaped distribution, indicating constant and regular regeneration of these plantations. The upper canopy dominates the vertical structure in both types of plantations, with a significantly higher proportion in peasant plantations (83.60%) than in state plantations (73.8%), ANOVA (F (2.24 = 21.78), df = 24; p = 4.03 × 10−6). The findings indicate that the sustainable management of these plantations could incorporate agroecological principles to promote the coexistence of rubber production and biodiversity conservation while contributing to the restoration of degraded ecosystems and the well-being of local communities. Full article
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24 pages, 2413 KiB  
Article
Agricultural Land Market Dynamics and Their Economic Implications for Sustainable Development in Poland
by Marcin Gospodarowicz, Bożena Karwat-Woźniak, Emil Ślązak, Adam Wasilewski and Anna Wasilewska
Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6484; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146484 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 628
Abstract
This study examines Poland’s agricultural land market between 2009 and 2023 through fixed effects and spatial econometric models, highlighting economic and spatial determinants of land prices. Key results show that GDP per capita strongly increases land values (β = +0.699, p < 0.001), [...] Read more.
This study examines Poland’s agricultural land market between 2009 and 2023 through fixed effects and spatial econometric models, highlighting economic and spatial determinants of land prices. Key results show that GDP per capita strongly increases land values (β = +0.699, p < 0.001), while agricultural gross value added (–2.698, p = 0.009), soil quality (–6.241, p < 0.001), and land turnover (–0.395, p < 0.001) are associated with lower prices. Spatial dependence is confirmed (λ = 0.74), revealing strong regional spillovers. The volume of state-owned WRSP land sales declined from 37.4 thousand hectares in 2015 to 3.1 thousand hectares in 2023, while non-market transfers, such as donations, exceeded 49,000 annually. Although these trends support farmland protection and family farms, they also reduce market mobility and hinder generational renewal. The findings call for more flexible, sustainability-oriented land governance that combines ecological performance, regional equity, and improved access for young farmers. Full article
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19 pages, 289 KiB  
Article
Peer Effects and Rural Households’ Online Shopping Behavior: Evidence from China
by Jiaxi Zhou, Guoxiong Zhao and Liuyang Yao
Agriculture 2025, 15(14), 1527; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15141527 - 15 Jul 2025
Viewed by 341
Abstract
Amid the rapid expansion of the digital economy, online shopping has become increasingly common among rural households in China, yet the social interaction mechanisms driving such behavior remain insufficiently explored. This study examines the impact of peer effects on farmers’ online shopping behavior [...] Read more.
Amid the rapid expansion of the digital economy, online shopping has become increasingly common among rural households in China, yet the social interaction mechanisms driving such behavior remain insufficiently explored. This study examines the impact of peer effects on farmers’ online shopping behavior using data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) covering the years 2014 to 2022. A Logit model is applied to estimate peer influence, and interaction terms are introduced to assess the moderating roles of land assets and social expenditures. The results reveal that peer behavior significantly increases the likelihood of rural households participating in online shopping, with the effect being particularly strong among low-income, less-educated households and those in western regions. Additionally, both land-rich households and those with higher social expenditures demonstrate greater responsiveness to peer influence. These findings highlight the importance of local social interaction in shaping rural online shopping behavior and provide theoretical and practical implications for digital inclusion and rural e-commerce strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)
13 pages, 210 KiB  
Article
Rating One’s Diet Quality: Qualitative Study Results
by Tameka I. Walls, Alicia S. Landry, Nichole A. Espineli and Jessica L. Thomson
Dietetics 2025, 4(3), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4030028 - 7 Jul 2025
Viewed by 274
Abstract
American adults struggle with accurately assessing the quality of their diet, with the majority overrating their diet quality. Thus, the objective of the study was to explore what individuals think about when asked to rate their diet quality. Virtual focus groups were conducted [...] Read more.
American adults struggle with accurately assessing the quality of their diet, with the majority overrating their diet quality. Thus, the objective of the study was to explore what individuals think about when asked to rate their diet quality. Virtual focus groups were conducted from October 2023 to April 2024, using a semi-structured interview with open-ended questions. Convenience samples of small-scale farmers, school food service directors, health clinic patients, and university students and staff in Mississippi and Arkansas participated (N = 27). Themes and subthemes from NVivo-transcribed discussions were identified and coded inductively. Four subthemes emerged for description of diet: balance, consideration for others, convenience, and location. Four subthemes emerged for quality of diet: availability/access, culture/tradition, health considerations, and making better choices. Three subthemes emerged for healthy food: composition/preparation, nourishing benefits, and taste/flavor. Three subthemes emerged for unhealthy food: addicting/overconsumption, composition/preparation, and undesirable effects. Three subthemes emerged for nutrition knowledge: audience specific, general knowledge, and ambivalence. Three subthemes emerged for food shopping: food types, family influence/preference, and planning. Factors shaping how individuals perceive their diet quality are complex with intertwining components. Understanding the complexity involved in self-perceptions of diet quality will help us better quantify perceptions and link them to measurable outcomes. Full article
13 pages, 3755 KiB  
Article
Diversity of Termites Used in Poultry Feed in Burkina Faso
by Aïchatou Nadia Christelle Dao, Fernand Sankara, Mouhamadou Moustapha Ndiaye, Abdoulaye Baïla Ndiaye, Salimata Pousga, Irénée Somda and Marc Kenis
Insects 2025, 16(7), 687; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16070687 - 30 Jun 2025
Viewed by 388
Abstract
The aim of the study was to assess the diversity of termites used in poultry feed in Burkina Faso. Termite samples were collected in eight of the thirteen regions of the country by poultry farmers, then conserved in 70° alcohol. The criteria used [...] Read more.
The aim of the study was to assess the diversity of termites used in poultry feed in Burkina Faso. Termite samples were collected in eight of the thirteen regions of the country by poultry farmers, then conserved in 70° alcohol. The criteria used by poultry farmers for identifying the termite were also characterised and discussed with farmers in a village where the use of termites as poultry feed is well developed. Morphological identifications were carried out in the laboratory. Twenty species were identified in two families, six subfamilies, and thirteen genera. In the Heterotermitidae family, a single species belonging to the Coptotermitinae subfamily was identified. The rest belonged to the family Termitidae and the subfamilies Amitermitinae, Microcerotermitinae, Macrotermitinae, Nasutitermitinae, and Cubitermitinae. Three species, Microcerotermes fuscotibialis, Megagnathotermes notandus, and Isognathotermes fungifaber, were found for the first time in Burkina Faso. The largest number of species (eleven) was collected in the Cascades region. Poultry farmers are able to recognise eight genera of termites by the shape, size, and colour of the termites; by the termite mounds; and often by the location of the nest. These results may facilitate the promotion of the use of termites as poultry feed in Burkina Faso and West Africa. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Role of Insects in Human Society)
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15 pages, 245 KiB  
Article
Remuneration for Own Labour in Family-Run Dairy Farms Versus the Salaries and Wages in Non-Agricultural Sectors of the Economy—Evaluation of the Situation in Poland in 2005–2022
by Andrzej Parzonko, Tomasz Wojewodzic, Marta Czekaj, Renata Płonka and Anna Justyna Parzonko
Agriculture 2025, 15(12), 1314; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15121314 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 495
Abstract
Income level is a key indicator of the standard of living and the economic efficiency of undertaken activities. This paper aims to evaluate the earnings of Polish dairy farmers compared to those in other economic sectors between 2005 and 2022. The analysis covered [...] Read more.
Income level is a key indicator of the standard of living and the economic efficiency of undertaken activities. This paper aims to evaluate the earnings of Polish dairy farmers compared to those in other economic sectors between 2005 and 2022. The analysis covered 1688 family-run farms that participated continuously in the FADN system throughout the study period, with particular emphasis on farms that expanded their dairy cow herds. The remuneration for the labour of farmers and their families was estimated ex post by subtracting the opportunity costs of owned land and capital from farm income. The alternative cost of engaging one’s own land was determined on the basis of actual rental prices for farmland occurring in the surveyed farm groups in the years analysed. This information is collected in the FADN system from which the studied group of farms was drawn. The basis for determining the alternative cost of involvement of own capital was the average interest rates on deposits for households, concluded for a period of 6 months to 1 year inclusive, reported by the National Bank of Poland. The analysed population was divided into seven groups based on the number of dairy cows maintained. The analysis focused on two three-year reference periods: 2005–2007 and 2020–2022. The results were compared with average salaries and wages in non-agricultural sectors of the economy. Structural changes in agriculture, increased productivity, and the expansion of production scale in dairy farms indicate a growing professionalisation of the sector. The rise in farm incomes during the analysed period contributed to a significant increase in the remuneration for farmers’ and their families’ labour. The highest growth in remuneration was observed among farms with the greatest production potential and scale. While in 2005–2007 the remuneration for labour in dairy farms was lower than in non-agricultural sectors, this situation changed in 2020–2022. During this latter period, the average remuneration for labour on dairy farms slightly exceeded the average salary and wages in other sectors of the economy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Economics of Milk Production and Processing)
23 pages, 1557 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Agricultural Mechanization Services on the Technical Efficiency of Cotton Production
by Yaxue Zhu, Guangyao Wang, Huijuan Du, Jiajia Liu and Qingshan Yang
Agriculture 2025, 15(11), 1233; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15111233 - 5 Jun 2025
Viewed by 748
Abstract
As the process of agricultural modernization accelerates, exploring the impact of agricultural mechanization services on production technology efficiency has become a key issue for enhancing agricultural productivity and promoting sustainable agricultural development. The study focuses on cotton growers in the Tarim River Basin [...] Read more.
As the process of agricultural modernization accelerates, exploring the impact of agricultural mechanization services on production technology efficiency has become a key issue for enhancing agricultural productivity and promoting sustainable agricultural development. The study focuses on cotton growers in the Tarim River Basin and systematically explores the impact and driving mechanisms of agricultural mechanization services (AMSs) on cotton production’s technical efficiency within the framework of the social–ecological system (SES). By employing a combination of stochastic frontier analysis (SFA) and propensity score matching (PSM), the research indicates that the adoption of AMSs significantly enhances the production technical efficiency of cotton farmers. Among the sample that adopted this service, as much as 53.04% of the farmers have their production efficiency within the range of [0.8, 0.9], demonstrating a high production capability. In contrast, the production efficiency values of the farmers who did not adopt such services are more dispersed, with inefficient samples accounting for 11.48%. Furthermore, while the technical efficiency levels across different regions are similar, there are significant efficiency differences within regions. A further analysis indicates that the age of the household head, their education level, the number of agricultural laborers in the family, the proportion of income from planting, and irrigation convenience have a positive impact on farmers’ adoption of AMSs, while the degree of land fragmentation has a negative impact. Therefore, AMSs are not only a core pathway to enhance cotton production’s technical efficiency but also an important support for promoting agricultural modernization in arid areas and strengthening farmers’ risk-resistance capabilities. Future policies should focus on optimizing service delivery, enhancing technical adaptability, and promoting regional collaboration to drive the high-quality development of the cotton industry and support sustainable rural revitalization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)
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29 pages, 1349 KiB  
Article
The Catalyst to Activate Rural Economic Vitality: The Impact of Land Transfer on the Consumption Behaviour of Older Farmers in China
by Peng Cheng, Qiaosen Jin and Yunhua Xiang
Land 2025, 14(6), 1168; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14061168 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 481
Abstract
Against the backdrop of the current rural economic transformation and the intensification of the ageing process, land transfer, as an important land policy tool, has gradually become a key factor influencing the consumption behaviour of farmers, especially older farmers. Based on the four-period [...] Read more.
Against the backdrop of the current rural economic transformation and the intensification of the ageing process, land transfer, as an important land policy tool, has gradually become a key factor influencing the consumption behaviour of farmers, especially older farmers. Based on the four-period panel data of the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), this study uses a two-way fixed-effects model to examine the impact of land transfer (land transfer-out, land transfer-in, and two-way land transfer) on the consumption behaviour of older farmers. This study finds that land transfer-out significantly increases the total consumption of older farmers and promotes subsistence, healthy, and hedonic consumption. In contrast, land transfer-in does not show a significant effect on hedonic consumption. The mechanism test reveals that household income plays a key mediating role in the process of land transfer, affecting the consumption behaviour of older farmers. Two-way land transfer promotes the consumption level and the upgrading of the consumption structure of older farmers through income portfolio optimisation and risk diversification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 15-Minute City: Land-Use Policy Impacts)
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21 pages, 343 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Government Subsidies on Income Inequality Among Farm Households in China: Evidence from CFPS Panel Data
by Leyi Wang, Li Deng and Shi Zheng
Agriculture 2025, 15(11), 1142; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15111142 - 26 May 2025
Viewed by 699
Abstract
Effectively measuring the income-generating effects of government subsidies is an important issue in assessing agricultural policies and implementing precision poverty alleviation. This study utilizes panel data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) to screen a sample of 13,583 individual residents. We empirically [...] Read more.
Effectively measuring the income-generating effects of government subsidies is an important issue in assessing agricultural policies and implementing precision poverty alleviation. This study utilizes panel data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) to screen a sample of 13,583 individual residents. We empirically analyze the impact of government subsidies on income inequality among farm households using fixed effects models, quantile regressions, and mediated effects models. Our study found that the following results: (1) The mechanism of subsidy action combines the functions of increasing income and regulating income distribution. Marginal benefits to low-income groups are more obvious. (2) Increasing productive agricultural inputs can reduce the income gap of farmers, which is more significant than the direct subsidy of funds. (3) The incentive effect of subsidies is strongest in the Northeast and weakest in the East. Compared to middle-aged and older farmers, the utility level of the subsidy is stronger in the youth group. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Economics, Policies and Rural Management)
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23 pages, 1015 KiB  
Article
How Does Farmland Transfer-Out Reshape Household Consumption Structure? Insights from Generational Heterogeneity in Rural China
by Shaojun Chen, Jixing Xiu and Kexin Zhou
Land 2025, 14(6), 1134; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14061134 - 22 May 2025
Viewed by 377
Abstract
China’s ongoing urbanization, expanding land transfer, has reshaped rural land use and generational consumption patterns. Using three waves of China Family Panel Studies data, this study applies a two-way fixed effect model to examine the impact of farmland transfer-out on generational consumption structure [...] Read more.
China’s ongoing urbanization, expanding land transfer, has reshaped rural land use and generational consumption patterns. Using three waves of China Family Panel Studies data, this study applies a two-way fixed effect model to examine the impact of farmland transfer-out on generational consumption structure and explores the mediating role of household income, the moderating role of non-agricultural income share, and regional and income heterogeneity. Findings show the following: (1) Farmland transfer-out significantly increases subsistence, developmental, and hedonic consumption among middle-aged and young farmers, with the greatest rise in hedonic consumption. For elderly farmers, only subsistence consumption increases, and to a lesser extent. (2) Among middle-aged and young farmers, transfer-out raises household income, boosting all consumption types; a higher share of non-farm income further strengthens subsistence and hedonic consumption. For elderly farmers, while income increases, a higher non-farm income share weakens the income effect on subsistence consumption. (3) Regionally, land transfer-out significantly boosts subsistence and hedonic consumption in the eastern region for younger farmers, and all three types—especially subsistence—in the central and western regions. Elderly farmers in the east also see a rise in subsistence consumption. (4) An income heterogeneity analysis shows stronger effects for low-income younger farmers and high-income elderly farmers. Based on these findings, this study proposes targeted policies to promote farmland transfer-out, offering insights for optimizing land use and enhancing rural consumption, with implications for other countries’ land management. Full article
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25 pages, 364 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Formal and Informal Institutional Elements on Land Mobility Within Rural Greece
by Ilias Makris, Sotiris Apostolopoulos, Vasileios Giannopoulos, Panos Dimitrakopoulos and Panagiotis Charalampakis
Sustainability 2025, 17(10), 4412; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17104412 - 13 May 2025
Viewed by 729
Abstract
Land mobility, particularly in the agricultural sector, is a critical factor for rural development and the maintenance of the supply chain. In the EU, the dominant form of agricultural land mobility is succession. This study examines the impact of formal and informal institutional [...] Read more.
Land mobility, particularly in the agricultural sector, is a critical factor for rural development and the maintenance of the supply chain. In the EU, the dominant form of agricultural land mobility is succession. This study examines the impact of formal and informal institutional factors on land mobility and the development of the agricultural sector in Greece, emphasizing their role in shaping succession and land mobility processes. This research introduces an innovative approach by analyzing both formal (legislation, EU policies, taxation) and informal (cultural ties, family traditions) institutional factors that influence land mobility. Within this framework, this study explores the attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors of farmers, acknowledging that the institutional environment—shaped by both official regulations and informal norms, often expressed by the family head—may influence younger family members to adopt similar behaviors and practices. It also highlights the impact of ineffective and underdeveloped formal and informal institutions, providing policymakers and young people seeking to engage in agriculture with a valuable guide. The methodology is based on qualitative research, using semi-structured interviews with 21 members of farming families to capture views, perceptions, and experiences related to land mobility. The findings highlight several major barriers, including fragmented land ownership, emotional attachment to inherited land, bureaucratic obstacles, and high tax burdens. At the same time, shifting attitudes among younger generations are evident, as they adopt a more entrepreneurial mindset in land management. The results point to an urgent need for institutional reforms, such as completing the land registry, simplifying land transfer procedures, and promoting land consolidation policies. Overall, this exploratory study underscores the need for increased research attention to the formal and informal institutional elements that influence rural economic and structural development through land mobility, providing important insights for policies aimed to enhance land mobility and ensure the sustainable development of the agricultural sector. Furthermore, it provides valuable input for understanding and addressing challenges such as family traditions, emotional attachments to inherited land, and land mobility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rural Economy and Sustainable Community Development)
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