Lower external input farming methods as a more sustainable-solution for small-scale farmers
Date
2009-03
Authors
Kelly, Candice
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Abstract
The main aims of this thesis were to assess the sustainability of the original Green
Revolution (GR) farming methods for small-scale farmers in developing countries, to
identify alternative farming methods which may be more sustainable and to comment
on the New GR for Africa, currently being promoted by the Alliance for a Green
Revolution in Africa (AGRA). A key element of the thesis was primary research done
in India, in order to gather the experience of selected small-scale farmers in that
country who had converted from GR to low-external input farming methods. The
experience of the farmers in India was used to highlight points made in the thesis.
Both primary and secondary data were used to inform the study. Firstly, a literature
review was conducted in order to assess the original GR, identify alternative farming
methods and gather information on the New GR for Africa. In order to assess
sustainability, a framework was developed which defined sustainability at a global
level and also at the level of the individual small-scale farmer. This framework was
based on a discussion of sustainable development and the sustainable livelihoods
approach. Key elements of GR and alternative farming methods were identified and
assessed according to this framework. Secondly, primary data was gathered in India
from a group of small-scale farmers who had taken part in a programme by a nongovernmental
organisation called Dharamitra. The data was collected through semistructured
interviews and participant observation techniques. This data was used in
order to illustrate points made in the literature review.
The study concluded that many elements of farming methods from the original GR are
unsustainable, both globally and at the level of the small-scale farmer. The main
findings were that GR farming methods caused damage to the environment and in
particular made small-scale farmers reliant on external inputs. Alternative farming
methods which used organic and low external input approaches were found to
enhance and preserve the environment, while at the same time being more affordable
for small-scale farmers. The experience of the farmers interviewed in India confirmed
these findings and provided a useful illustration of concepts presented from the
literature review. Lastly, the New GR for Africa was found to present elements of the original GR which are unsustainable for small-scale farmers, especially in terms of the
reliance that would be created on external inputs.
The study concluded with recommendations around the need to promote farming
methods to small-scale farmers which promote better care of the environment and are
better able to promote sustainable livelihoods, namely organic or low external input
methods. Recommendations were also made regarding the need for further research
into the influence of AGRA’s policies and documentation of sustainable farming
practices in Africa.
Description
Thesis (MPhil (Sustainable Development Planning and Management))--University of Stellenbosch, 2009.
Keywords
Small-scale farming, Sustainable development, Sustainable agriculture, Green Revolution, Agricultural innovations in Africa, Dissertations -- Public management and planning, Theses -- Public management and planning