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Locked-in or ready for climate change mitigation? Agri-food networks as structures for dairy-beef farming

Author

Listed:
  • Maja Farstad

    (University Centre Dragvoll)

  • Heidi Vinge

    (University Centre Dragvoll)

  • Egil Petter Stræte

    (University Centre Dragvoll)

Abstract

Many countries have included agriculture as one of the sectors where they intend to obtain significant greenhouse gas emission reductions. In Norway, the dairy-beef sector, in particular, has been targeted for considerable emission cuts. Despite publicly expressed interest within the agricultural sector for reducing emissions, significant measures have yet to be implemented. In this paper, we draw on qualitative data from Norway when examining the extent the wider agri-food network around farmers promotes or restrains the transition toward low-emission agricultural production. A qualitative analysis based on interviews with key stakeholders from various parts of the agri-food network of dairy-beef indicates that, if it is up to the dairy-beef system itself, it will develop in the direction of continued increased production volumes and increased efficiency in production, combined with moderate measures to reduce emissions. There is an obvious reluctance to stimulate the consumer demand toward other products or meat products with reduced emissions because such a solution would complicate full exploitation of existing agricultural resources and hence could bring considerable negative economic consequences. Another factor limiting the scope and drive towards a low-carbon production is that the effects of various potential climate measures do not appear as unambiguous. Our study indicates that the dairy-beef sector will likely not reach the goal of reduced emissions from its own initiatives. Rather, significant changes would probably require both push and pull support from forces outside the agricultural system.

Suggested Citation

  • Maja Farstad & Heidi Vinge & Egil Petter Stræte, 2021. "Locked-in or ready for climate change mitigation? Agri-food networks as structures for dairy-beef farming," Agriculture and Human Values, Springer;The Agriculture, Food, & Human Values Society (AFHVS), vol. 38(1), pages 29-41, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:agrhuv:v:38:y:2021:i:1:d:10.1007_s10460-020-10134-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s10460-020-10134-5
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    References listed on IDEAS

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