By Jamie Martin
A recent study by the University of Cordoba's Department of Agricultural Economics, Finance, and Accounting has identified stability and flexibility as the two main components of farm resilience. This finding emphasizes the importance of more specific agricultural policies to effectively address these components in the context of climate change and economic instability.
Resilience, the ability of farms to adapt to changes, is a complex and heterogeneous concept. The study found that some farms are stable but less flexible, while others are more adaptable but less stable. Therefore, public policies must consider both of these aspects when designing support mechanisms for farmers.
Using a novel theoretical framework, researchers analyzed Spanish arable crops—representing over 30% of Spain’s agricultural land. Data from 947 farms were used to examine how factors such as farm size, workforce, and farming methods (organic vs. conventional) affected stability and flexibility. The study revealed that Spanish farms showed high stability but low flexibility, influenced by factors such as land ownership and reliance on subsidies.
The study concluded that policies designed to improve farm resilience should balance the two components. For instance, focusing solely on stability might impair flexibility, and vice versa. Effective agricultural policies should be tailored to specific regional and sectoral needs, ensuring farms can remain resilient under various challenges.
This research highlights the need for more nuanced policy instruments that consider both static and dynamic resilience. The ultimate goal is to maintain stable food production, reduce environmental impact, and foster rural development.
Photo Credit: istock-pkujiahe
Categories: National