Volume 10, Issue 2 (12-2023)
J Entrepreneurial Strategies Agric 2023, 10(2): 46-60 |
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Talaie H. (2023). Decision-making about Barriers to Establishing Shared Farms with the Approach of Achieving Sustainable Development Goals. J Entrepreneurial Strategies Agric. 10(2), 46-60. doi:10.61186/jea.10.20.43
URL: http://jea.sanru.ac.ir/article-1-361-en.html
URL: http://jea.sanru.ac.ir/article-1-361-en.html
Department of Industrial Management, Faculty of Administrative Sciences and Economics, Arak University, Arak, Iran
Abstract: (2769 Views)
Extended Abstract
Background: In response to the goals of sustainable development, a new socio-economic system known as the shared economy has emerged. This model focuses on sharing resources among individuals, which helps to mitigate negative environmental and social impacts while also reducing costs. The agricultural sector in Iran, however, is particularly vulnerable to instability, making it essential to explore strategies that promote and implement the shared economy within this field. This study aims to identify the barriers to implementing a shared economy in agriculture, specifically in the central plateau region of Iran. The shared economy in agriculture involves collaborative farming practices where resources such as land, equipment, and labor are shared among farmers. This approach not only enhances productivity but also fosters community engagement and sustainability. However, the successful implementation of shared farming initiatives is often obstructed by various barriers. Understanding these obstacles is crucial for developing effective strategies that can facilitate the transition to a shared economic model in agriculture.
Methods: The research employs a descriptive-survey methodology and is classified as practical in terms of its objectives. The statistical sample comprises 15 experts and farmers engaged in shared farming initiatives in the central plateau of Iran. Participants were selected using a judgmental sampling method to ensure that those with relevant expertise and experience were included in the study. The research began with a comprehensive review of existing literature to identify the barriers to establishing shared farms. Based on this review, expert opinions were solicited to localize the identified barriers, leading to the formation of a decision tree. This decision tree served as a framework for analyzing the various obstacles to shared farming. Subsequently, pairwise comparison matrices were constructed at each level of the decision tree, allowing for a systematic evaluation of the barriers. To rank and prioritize these barriers, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method was employed, utilizing Expert Choice version 11 software. This method enables the assessment of complex decision-making scenarios by breaking them down into simpler components, thereby facilitating a clearer understanding of the relative importance of each barrier.
Results: The findings of this research revealed that the barriers to implementing shared farms in the central plateau of Iran can be categorized into four main groups: economic, social, technical, and stakeholders' barriers. Each of these categories encompasses various sub-barriers that contribute to the challenges faced in establishing shared farming practices. Economic barriers emerged as the most significant obstacle, particularly the high capital costs associated with initiating shared farming projects. Many potential participants are deterred by the substantial initial investments required. Additionally, the lack of financial incentives exacerbates this issue, as many farmers are hesitant to invest in a model that is not well-established. Social barriers also play a critical role in hindering the adoption of shared farming practices. A notable challenge is the lack of willingness to change among farmers. Many individuals are accustomed to traditional farming practices and may resist adopting new methods, even if they promise greater efficiency and sustainability. This reluctance often arises from a fear of the unknown or a lack of awareness regarding the benefits of shared farming. Technical barriers were identified as another significant challenge. Many farmers in the region lack access to modern agricultural technologies that could facilitate shared farming practices. Without the necessary tools and resources, implementing a shared economy becomes increasingly challenging. Furthermore, inadequate communication platforms hinder collaboration among farmers, limiting their ability to coordinate efforts and share resources effectively. This barrier highlights the need for improved networking and collaboration within the agricultural community. Based on the prioritization of these barriers, the study found that the most pressing sub-barriers include capital costs, lack of incentives, reluctance to change, lack of technology, and insufficient communication platforms. Addressing these issues is crucial for facilitating the successful implementation of shared farms in the region.
Conclusion: The results of this study underscore the significance of understanding and addressing the barriers to implementing shared farms in the central plateau of Iran. Among the identified barriers, economic challenges, particularly capital costs, emerged as the most critical obstacle to the successful establishment of shared farming initiatives. Therefore, it is imperative that a comprehensive revenue model and return on investment (ROI) calculations are developed and communicated to potential partners before initiating shared farming projects. Furthermore, recognizing the importance of incentives is vital for promoting a culture of shared farming. To encourage participation and foster successful implementation, both material and spiritual incentives should be considered. Material incentives could include financial support, subsidies, and the provision of necessary facilities. On the other hand, spiritual incentives may involve recognizing and appreciating successful shared farming ventures, thereby motivating others to participate. In summary, the development of a shared economy in agriculture holds great potential for enhancing productivity and sustainability in the central plateau of Iran. By addressing the identified barriers and fostering a supportive environment for shared farming practices, stakeholders can contribute to the overall improvement of the agricultural sector, ultimately benefiting farmers and the broader community.
Methods: The research employs a descriptive-survey methodology and is classified as practical in terms of its objectives. The statistical sample comprises 15 experts and farmers engaged in shared farming initiatives in the central plateau of Iran. Participants were selected using a judgmental sampling method to ensure that those with relevant expertise and experience were included in the study. The research began with a comprehensive review of existing literature to identify the barriers to establishing shared farms. Based on this review, expert opinions were solicited to localize the identified barriers, leading to the formation of a decision tree. This decision tree served as a framework for analyzing the various obstacles to shared farming. Subsequently, pairwise comparison matrices were constructed at each level of the decision tree, allowing for a systematic evaluation of the barriers. To rank and prioritize these barriers, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method was employed, utilizing Expert Choice version 11 software. This method enables the assessment of complex decision-making scenarios by breaking them down into simpler components, thereby facilitating a clearer understanding of the relative importance of each barrier.
Results: The findings of this research revealed that the barriers to implementing shared farms in the central plateau of Iran can be categorized into four main groups: economic, social, technical, and stakeholders' barriers. Each of these categories encompasses various sub-barriers that contribute to the challenges faced in establishing shared farming practices. Economic barriers emerged as the most significant obstacle, particularly the high capital costs associated with initiating shared farming projects. Many potential participants are deterred by the substantial initial investments required. Additionally, the lack of financial incentives exacerbates this issue, as many farmers are hesitant to invest in a model that is not well-established. Social barriers also play a critical role in hindering the adoption of shared farming practices. A notable challenge is the lack of willingness to change among farmers. Many individuals are accustomed to traditional farming practices and may resist adopting new methods, even if they promise greater efficiency and sustainability. This reluctance often arises from a fear of the unknown or a lack of awareness regarding the benefits of shared farming. Technical barriers were identified as another significant challenge. Many farmers in the region lack access to modern agricultural technologies that could facilitate shared farming practices. Without the necessary tools and resources, implementing a shared economy becomes increasingly challenging. Furthermore, inadequate communication platforms hinder collaboration among farmers, limiting their ability to coordinate efforts and share resources effectively. This barrier highlights the need for improved networking and collaboration within the agricultural community. Based on the prioritization of these barriers, the study found that the most pressing sub-barriers include capital costs, lack of incentives, reluctance to change, lack of technology, and insufficient communication platforms. Addressing these issues is crucial for facilitating the successful implementation of shared farms in the region.
Conclusion: The results of this study underscore the significance of understanding and addressing the barriers to implementing shared farms in the central plateau of Iran. Among the identified barriers, economic challenges, particularly capital costs, emerged as the most critical obstacle to the successful establishment of shared farming initiatives. Therefore, it is imperative that a comprehensive revenue model and return on investment (ROI) calculations are developed and communicated to potential partners before initiating shared farming projects. Furthermore, recognizing the importance of incentives is vital for promoting a culture of shared farming. To encourage participation and foster successful implementation, both material and spiritual incentives should be considered. Material incentives could include financial support, subsidies, and the provision of necessary facilities. On the other hand, spiritual incentives may involve recognizing and appreciating successful shared farming ventures, thereby motivating others to participate. In summary, the development of a shared economy in agriculture holds great potential for enhancing productivity and sustainability in the central plateau of Iran. By addressing the identified barriers and fostering a supportive environment for shared farming practices, stakeholders can contribute to the overall improvement of the agricultural sector, ultimately benefiting farmers and the broader community.
Keywords: Agriculture, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), Decision-making, Shared economy, Sustainability
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