In the heart of the Himalayas, a quiet revolution is brewing. Bhutan, a nation known for its commitment to environmental conservation, is grappling with the economic realities of transitioning to organic farming. A recent study, published in the journal Cogent Food & Agriculture, sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the country’s potato farmers. The research, led by Priyanka Rai from the Department of Environment and Climate Studies at the Royal University of Bhutan, compares the economic performances of conventional and in-conversion to organic potato farming systems.
The study, conducted in Kumbu Village under the Wangdue Phodrang District, reveals stark differences in productivity and profitability between the two farming methods. Conventional farms yielded 21,093.75 kg per hectare, while in-conversion to organic farms produced 14,801.59 kg per hectare. The economic disparity is even more pronounced when looking at net income. Conventional farms generated a net income of 51,842.33 Nu (approximately 667 USD) per hectare, whereas in-conversion to organic farms incurred a net loss of -294,052.69 Nu (approximately -3,840 USD) per hectare.
“The transition to organic farming is not just about changing farming practices; it’s about changing the entire agricultural ecosystem,” says Rai. “Our study highlights the need for policy interventions to support farmers during this transition.”
The benefit-cost ratio further underscores the economic challenges of transitioning to organic farming. Conventional farms had a benefit-cost ratio of 1.18, indicating a modest profit. In contrast, in-conversion to organic farms had a ratio of 0.45, signaling a loss. These findings suggest that while organic farming aligns with Bhutan’s environmental goals, it poses significant economic hurdles for farmers.
The study recommends several policy interventions to support the transition to organic farming. These include subsidies to offset initial costs, improved market access to ensure fair prices for organic produce, and targeted training and awareness programs to educate farmers about organic practices. “We need a holistic approach that addresses both the environmental and economic aspects of farming,” Rai emphasizes.
The implications of this research extend beyond Bhutan. As countries worldwide grapple with the need for sustainable agricultural practices, the experiences of Bhutanese farmers offer valuable insights. The study underscores the importance of supporting farmers during the transition to organic farming, ensuring that environmental sustainability does not come at the expense of economic viability.
The findings of this research could shape future developments in the field by influencing policy decisions and agricultural practices. By highlighting the economic challenges of transitioning to organic farming, the study calls for a more nuanced approach that balances environmental sustainability with economic viability. As Rai notes, “The future of farming lies in finding a balance between our environmental goals and the economic realities of farming.”
The study, published in the journal Cogent Food & Agriculture, which translates to ‘Clear Food & Agriculture’ in English, provides a roadmap for policymakers and farmers alike. It underscores the need for a supportive ecosystem that enables farmers to adopt sustainable practices without compromising their livelihoods. As Bhutan continues its journey towards an organic nation, the lessons learned from this study will be invaluable in shaping a sustainable and prosperous future for its farmers.