Farmers' Preferences for Gene Editing Crops and Influencing Factors

Abstract

Gene editing (GE) is gaining momentum worldwide, but limited data on UK farmers' preferences hinders our understanding of its potential impact amid deregulation debates. Based on a survey of 200 English arable farmers, we employ a Latent Class Analysis and Multinomial Logit regressions to investigate current preferences for GE crops. The analysis reveals a high willingness of adoption, outlines three preference profiles, including eager, wary, and hesitant adopters, and identify factors influencing such preferences. Results spot a possible substitution effect among GE crops and agricultural insurance, and suggest farmers may adopt GE in response to growing public demand for sustainable practices.