What does “organic” mean for farmers? A qualitative study on their perceptions and motivations about organic farming

Abstract

Organic production involves multiple techniques and it is interpreted in different ways by the agents involved. They would act according to their preferences, values and expectations but also determined by the current system of food production, distribution and commercialization. At the same time, farmers experience a change in their perception regarding their business, themselves, and the relation with nature. For these reasons, it is relevant to study how this change contribute to the development of rural spaces and sustainable agrifood systems. The overall objective of this research is to find out producers’ views about organic agriculture and farm labour. In order to do so, I have analysed the discourses and experiences from thirteen deep-interviews to different agents related to organic production whose activity takes place in the region of Aragon (Spain). The study gives evidences about the change in the meaning of “farming” in organic production and their implications in the development of this sector, based in the ideal of sustainability. It shows how organic farming is not only driven by economic motivations but also farmers’ ecological commitment to sustainability.

Keywords: Organic agriculture, sustainability, food systems, farmers, rural society.