The Effects of Perceptions of Economic Sustainability and Barriers on Organic Farming Implementation

Summary

This study proposes an analysis of the impact of farmers′ demographic characteristics
and their perceptions of economic sustainability and barriers on organic farming
implementation in Turkey’s Thrace region. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were
collected from 400 farmers through surveys and analyzed using SPSS v27 The findings
revealed that age, education level, land ownership, and organic farming training were
significant predictors of adoption. Perceptions of economic sustainability positively influenced
adoption, while perceptions of barriers had a negative effect. The qualitative findings
identified certification costs, insufficient credit opportunities, and difficulties in accessing
organic inputs as the most common challenges faced by farmers. The most requested forms
of support included product purchase guarantees, financial aid during certification, and
fertilizer–pesticide subsidies. This study provides a foundation for developing policies and
programs to promote organic farming in Turkey, contributing to the country’s sustainable
agriculture goals.