Determining Factors for Farmers to Engage in Sustainable Agricultural Practices: A Case from Indonesia

Abstract

The Green Revolution still heavily influences the agricultural practices of small-scale farming enterprises employing unsustainable methods of cultivation. As a result, many initiatives have been developed to promote more environmentally friendly agricultural practices. This paper aims to seek the determinants of farmers regarding practicing more sustainable farming in Tasikmalaya Regency, Indonesia, especially in terms of the use of chemicals. Data were gained by interviewing 360 farmers at the study site. A logit regression model was then used to analyze the data. The results of the analysis indicate that the most significant determinants of sustainability in farming practices are each farmer’s standard of education and how active the farmer is in farmers’ groups. This shows the importance of positioning the farmer group as an essential factor for achieving sustainable farming in Indonesia. Consequently, transitioning to more sustainable agricultural practices requires that policymakers address the topic of economic incentives, improving market access, leveraging farmers’ groups, providing education and support, and designing policies that empower farmers as agents of change in their own communities.