A substantial body of research has been developed in the recent past with regard to the environmental and economic dimensions of sustainability of organic practices especially in developed countries. However, less attention has been paid regarding social dimension of sustainability. What could be some of the measurable indicators of the social dimension other than food security and safety?
There are some serious indicators which are difficult to weigh them in economic terms like ecosystem service of the organically managed soils, carbon loading capacity, earning carbon credits, shelf life , nutrient density, consumer satisfaction, ...
Well, this is a site specific question.Social sustainability depends upon the options available.For example from a tribe/ nomad having sufficient area to cultivate,going for organic is sustained as long as their local demand is fulfilled.But if some one is growing any crop on a commercial scale,other factors such as population pressure, available resources and cultural feasibility also attain importance.Under subsistence farming ,going for organic is the only options as here fertilizer and chemical have minimum role to play.So this kind of organic farming is having social sustained status while other case will offer a different scenarios.
Dear Raphael,
As you have mentioned social sustainability in particular, I think you have to measure the impact of organic farming on before-after design over a period of at least ten years for both the cases on the changes in the livelihood status of the sample respondents. For example, change in income, change in availability of food, change in health and environmental hazards on sample respondents etc. You may have develop certain socio-biological and soci-environmental indicators. Perceived responses in this regard compel the researchers some degree of comprises with the results and approximation, which may not reflect the original facts. Kindly, become careful in this regard.
Yes , social impact has to be visible in transforming livelihood of farmers associated with organic farming...I think, this is the most impactful issue...
I am profoundly grateful for your valuable responses.
Thank you
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