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Open Access
Article
Publication date: 3 September 2024

Daniel Oyewale Abioye, Olufemi Popoola, Adebowale Akande, David Abimbola Fadare, Siyanbola Adewumi Omitoyin, Babatunde Yinusa and Olayinka Oladayo Kolade

The agricultural sector has experienced a transformative impact through the adoption of digital technologies, particularly mobile applications designed for farmers. This study…

Abstract

Purpose

The agricultural sector has experienced a transformative impact through the adoption of digital technologies, particularly mobile applications designed for farmers. This study investigates the factors influencing smallholder farmers' willingness to adopt digital application tools in Ogun State, Nigeria, focusing on the IITA herbicide calculator and Akilimo mobile applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from 572 smallholder farmers participating in the Zero Hunger project. This research contributes to the limited empirical evidence in Nigeria concerning farmers' willingness to adopt digital application tools. The study analyzes the effects of education, training, access to internet services, smartphone ownership, willingness to use paid applications, awareness of application tools and the cost of digital tools on farmers' willingness to adopt. Gender differentials in willingness to adopt were also explored.

Findings

The results indicate positive and statistically significant effects of education, training, internet access, smartphone ownership, willingness to use paid applications, awareness of application tools and the cost of digital tools on farmers' willingness to adopt. However, female farmers exhibited a lower willingness to adopt digital application tools.

Practical implications

Policymakers are urged to create supportive policies promoting basic formal education and provide effective extension services to enhance farmers' training. Additionally, efforts should be made to reduce the cost of digital applications and improve internet accessibility in rural areas. Encouraging female farmers to adopt advanced agricultural technologies is essential. Stakeholders are advised to raise awareness of digital application tools to expedite the adoption of agricultural technologies in the country.

Social implications

This study will be helpful for the government to determine the state’s readiness for digital agriculture, it will help technology developers and agricultural technology startups to understand the factors determining farmers willingness to adopt digital application tools.

Originality/value

This study offers insights into the readiness of Ogun State, Nigeria, for digital agriculture. It provides valuable information for technology developers and agricultural startups to understand the determinants of farmers' willingness to adopt digital application tools, contributing to the advancement of the agricultural technology landscape.

Details

Journal of Strategy and Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1755-425X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 September 2024

S. Sudha, C. Ganeshkumar and Shilpa S. Kokatnur

Small farmers in India are collectivized and legalized as Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) to progress in agri-food value chains as small agribusiness enterprises. FPCs are…

Abstract

Purpose

Small farmers in India are collectivized and legalized as Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) to progress in agri-food value chains as small agribusiness enterprises. FPCs are dependent on timely information for their sustainability and profitability. Mobile apps are a cost-effective form of information and communication technology. Hence, the purpose of this study is to explore the major determinants of mobile apps adoption by FPCs.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative and qualitative data are collected by administering a semi-structured questionnaire and conducting in-depth interviews with board members of 115 FPCs, with a total membership of 30,405 farmers operating in 14 districts of the state of Kerala, India. The logit model is used for quantitative analysis, while dialog mapping is used for qualitative analysis, based on an integrated technology acceptance model and technology organization environment framework.

Findings

Logistic regression results evidence that amongst FPC characteristics, while company size and age are significantly impacting apps adoption, there is no significant association between board size, education level, multiple commodities business or export intention of companies on apps adoption. Digital literacy and technical hands-on training for FPC board members are quintessential to facilitate mobile apps adoption.

Practical implications

The findings are pertinent to policymakers to earmark funds for technical handholding and digital upskilling of FPCs. The need for developing comprehensive, location-centric, farmer-friendly apps by agritech companies is evidenced.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is a pioneering work in the domain of mobile apps adoption from a farmers’ agribusiness enterprise perspective in an emerging market economy using a mixed-methods approach.

Details

Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9342

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 September 2024

Maria Da Graça Benedito Jonas, Luis Artur, Siri Ellen Hallstrøm Eriksen and Synne Movik

Disaster management practices depend on societies' knowledge. As climate change rapidly reshapes knowledge, questions arise about how knowledge for disaster management is produced…

Abstract

Purpose

Disaster management practices depend on societies' knowledge. As climate change rapidly reshapes knowledge, questions arise about how knowledge for disaster management is produced and (re)shaped in modern world and how effective it is to withstand the ever-growing frequency and magnitude of disasters. This paper discusses the dynamics of knowledge creation and its use for disaster management in Chokwe district, southern Mozambique.

Design/methodology/approach

The study reviews historical archives to identify how disaster management knowledge has changed from pre-colonization to the present.

Findings

Before colonization, local knowledge associated with traditions of asking gods and ancestors for rain and blessings in life prevailed. With colonization, around the 1500s, Portuguese rulers attempted to eliminate these local practices through an inflow of European settlers who disseminated scientific knowledge, built dams and irrigation schemes, which changed the region’s knowledge base and regimes of flooding and drought. After independence in 1975, the new government nationalized all the private property, expelled the settlers and imposed a socialist order. All knowledge on disaster management was dictated by the new government; those against this new order were sent to re-education centers implanted nationwide. Centralization of knowledge and power was, therefore, implanted. Socialism collapsed by the 1990s, and over time, there has been an amalgam of different knowledge bases and attempts to recognize local disaster management practices.

Originality/value

The Chokwe case shows that knowledge for disaster management evolves with local socioeconomic, political and environmental changes.

Details

Disaster Prevention and Management: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0965-3562

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 January 2023

Juliana de Jesus Mendes, Marcelo José Carrer, Marcela de Mello Brandão Vinholis and Hildo Meirelles de Souza Filho

This study aimed to identify the determinants of farmers' participation in agricultural information-sharing digital groups and their impacts on farm performance.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aimed to identify the determinants of farmers' participation in agricultural information-sharing digital groups and their impacts on farm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data of the 2015/2016 crop year collected from 175 cattle farmers were analyzed using descriptive statistics and econometric models. Farmers who had smartphones and participated in social groups/applications, especially those created to exchange agricultural information, were considered adopters of the technology.

Findings

A Poisson hurdle model showed that farmers' decision to participate in agricultural information-sharing digital groups is determined by schooling, age (negative effect) and use of tools for planning production. The intensity of participation is affected by risk propensity, interaction with specialist advisors, use of tools for planning production and participation in cooperatives. The authors also found empirical evidence that farmers' participation in agricultural information-sharing digital groups positively affects farm income per hectare.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study are important for accelerating the diffusion of low-cost digital technologies, which are powerful tools for improving farmers' sharing and access to valuable information in real time and in locations far from urban areas.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first empirical analysis of the adoption and impacts of agricultural information-sharing digital groups/applications by Brazilian cattle farmers. The diffusion of simple digital technologies is important for reducing heterogeneity and increasing the efficiency of cattle production.

Details

Journal of Agribusiness in Developing and Emerging Economies, vol. 14 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-0839

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 September 2024

Shilei Cui, Donasius Pathera, Yajuan Li and Xiaoqiang Jiao

Smallholders are essential in ensuring food security; however, smallholder-dominated food production often involves high resource-environmental costs. This study analyzed the…

Abstract

Purpose

Smallholders are essential in ensuring food security; however, smallholder-dominated food production often involves high resource-environmental costs. This study analyzed the factors that differentiate horticultural practices, willingness to adopt technology and social networks between optimized practices (OPT) and farmer practices (FP) to provide localized and systematic solutions for the sustainable apple production.

Design/methodology/approach

To explore the approach of smallholder-dominated sustainable apple production, 257 apple producers in the Bohai Bay region, a major apple planting area in China, were investigated. Life cycle assessment (LCA), emergy analysis and social network analysis methods were used for evaluation.

Findings

The results showed that the net economic profit and emergy sustainability index (ESI) in OPT was 15.8 × 104 RMB·ha-1 and 1.2, respectively, which were 126.9 and 128.0% higher than FP. In contrast, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions under OPT was 29.3% lower than those under FP. OPT has a higher percentage of adoption of scientific fertilizer application and water-saving irrigation technologies compared to FP. OPT has strong learning abilities, more social resources (such as technical training and sharing technical experience with others) and connections with stakeholders in the apple supply chain. Optimizing smallholders' social capital, willingness to adopt technology, behavioral willingness and technological awareness can promote sustainable apple production.

Originality/value

Considering the horticultural practices employed by smallholders in conjunction with their social networks, these factors contributed to the transition of smallholder-led apple production toward sustainability. The findings provided viable options and a theoretical basis for smallholder-dominated crop production to move toward sustainability, with significant implications for policymakers.

Details

China Agricultural Economic Review, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1756-137X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 August 2024

Diego Marques Cavalcante, Lucas Veiga Ávila, Rosley Anholon, Álvaro Luiz Neuenfeldt Júnior and Vitor W.B. Martins

This study aims, from the perspective of the recovery of sustainability, to develop a framework on sustainability and innovation in the formation of engineers in the courses of…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims, from the perspective of the recovery of sustainability, to develop a framework on sustainability and innovation in the formation of engineers in the courses of Engineering in the Brazilian Amazon.

Design/methodology/approach

For this work, a quantitative approach was adopted in the research process. A survey instrument was developed from the main evidence in the literature, the electronic instrument in Google Forms, was sent in the period from November 2022 to February 2023 to engineering students from public institutions in the Brazilian eastern Amazon, who had 80% of the course completed and graduates.

Findings

Of the students and graduates who responded to the survey, 58% are male and 42% female, with an average age of 24 years, 72% who have the 8th semester, 28% graduates. As for the practices, they stand out with the highest average degree of agreement in the innovation aspect formation of partnerships and fostering creativity and innovation; in the sustainability aspect the study of sustainability helps to understand the environmental, social and economic challenges and importance of training for sustainability and innovation; in the sustainable recovery aspect, the interaction between university and local community and new research can contribute to the recovery of sustainability and in the SDGs 6 and 8.

Originality/value

This paper presents the perceptions of engineering students and graduates from the Brazilian Amazon, which is considered one of the most strategic regions for the country and internationally in terms of environmental challenges. The main evidence shows that there is a need to adapt academic curricula, seeking to focus on projects that promote participation and the creation of trends aimed at social problems and the current demands of the society in which they are inserted.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 20 May 2024

Jitender Kumar Goyal and Yamini Agarwal

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to identify the elements that can enhance financial inclusion (FI) in a nation, which in turn promotes economic development and growth.Need

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to identify the elements that can enhance financial inclusion (FI) in a nation, which in turn promotes economic development and growth.

Need for the Study: FI is crucial in providing people with the skills and resources to manage their money effectively and make informed financial decisions. Accessible, reliable and secure financial services play a significant role in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) and fostering economic progress.

Methodology: Data from 571 respondents were collected for analysis. The study utilises Statistical Package for Social Sciences SPSS and Analysis of Moment Structures AMOS software to analyse data and achieve the study’s objectives. The researchers employ these tools to obtain substantial results.

Findings: The findings indicate that FI contributes to economic growth (84%) and helps in accomplishing SDGs. Access, usage, affordability, technology, availability and technology adoption all play a vital role in increasing FI in the nation.

Practical Implications: The study’s outcomes have practical implications for policymakers and stakeholders, emphasising the importance of promoting FI through various measures such as enhancing access, affordability and technological advancements in financial services.

Details

Sustainable Development Goals: The Impact of Sustainability Measures on Wellbeing
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83549-460-8

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 17 September 2024

Azwindini Isaac Ramaano

This study looked at the potential applications of geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) for inclusive community development and participation, sustainable…

Abstract

Purpose

This study looked at the potential applications of geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) for inclusive community development and participation, sustainable tourism, and rural community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) in sub-Saharan Africa and other rural areas worldwide.

Design/methodology/approach

To evaluate resource management systems for rural tourism and the environment in Africa and abroad. The study makes use of reviews of relevant literature and documents, and while linking applications for sustainable tourism and local community empowerment with CBNRM and GIS, vital content was manually analyzed.

Findings

The study shows a potential affinity between agricultural and tourism businesses that GIS in line with the CBNRM conception can strengthen. In many rural and underdeveloped regions of the continent, this highlights the need for a credible and varied tourism strategy to develop and empower the relevant communities.

Originality/value

Most agricultural communities in Africa are located in low-income regions. Such areas are rich in natural wildlife and have popular tourist destinations. A mix of regional community development initiatives can be built using GIS, sustainable tourism, CBNRM, and community-based tourism (CBT).

Details

Journal of Electronic Business & Digital Economics, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2754-4214

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 29 July 2024

Nirbhay Rana

Abstract

Details

Threaded Harmony: A Sustainable Approach to Fashion
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83608-152-4

Article
Publication date: 21 May 2024

Isha Batra, Chetan Sharma, Arun Malik, Shamneesh Sharma, Mahender Singh Kaswan and Jose Arturo Garza-Reyes

The domains of Industry 4.0 and Smart Farming encompass the application of digitization, automation, and data-driven decision-making principles to revolutionize conventional…

103

Abstract

Purpose

The domains of Industry 4.0 and Smart Farming encompass the application of digitization, automation, and data-driven decision-making principles to revolutionize conventional sectors. The intersection of these two fields has numerous opportunities for industry, society, science, technology and research. Relatively, this intersection is new, and still, many grey areas need to be identified. This research is a step toward identifying research areas and current trends.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study examines prevailing research patterns and prospective research prospects within Industry 4.0 and Smart Farming. This is accomplished by utilizing the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) methodology applied to the data procured from the Scopus database.

Findings

By examining the available literature extensively, the researchers have successfully discovered and developed three separate research questions. The questions mentioned above were afterward examined with great attention to detail after using LDA on the dataset. The paper highlights a notable finding on the lack of existing scholarly research in the examined combined field. The existing database consists of a restricted collection of 51 scholarly papers. Nevertheless, the forthcoming terrain harbors immense possibilities for exploration and offers a plethora of prospects for additional investigation and cerebral evaluation.

Research limitations/implications

This study examines the Industrial Revolution's and Smart Farming's practical effects, focusing on Industry 4.0 research. The proposed method could help agricultural practitioners implement Industry 4.0 technology. It could additionally counsel technology developers on innovation and ease technology transfer. Research on regulatory frameworks, incentive programs and resource conservation may help policymakers and government agencies.

Practical implications

The paper proposes that the incorporation of Industry 4.0 technology into agricultural operations can enhance efficiency, production and sustainability. Furthermore, it highlights the significance of creating user-friendly solutions specifically tailored for farmers and companies. The study indicates that the implementation of supportive legislative frameworks, incentive programmes and resource conservation methods might encourage the adoption of smart agricultural technologies, resulting in the adoption of more sustainable practices.

Social implications

This study examines the Industrial Revolution's and Smart Farming's practical effects, focusing on Industry 4.0 research. The proposed method could help agricultural practitioners implement Industry 4.0 technology. It could additionally counsel technology developers on innovation and ease technology transfer. Research on regulatory frameworks, incentive programs and resource conservation may help policymakers and government agencies.

Originality/value

Based on a thorough examination of existing literature, it has been established that there is a lack of research specifically focusing on the convergence of Industry 4.0 and Smart Farming. However, notable progress has been achieved in the field of seclusion. To date, the provided dataset has not been subjected to analysis using the LDA technique by any researcher.

Details

The TQM Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-2731

Keywords

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