That’s the key finding of a major piece of groundbreaking research from an academic at the University of Plymouth.
The research could play a significant part in the transition to a more sustainable society, increasing local food production and boosting the rural economy in both developed and developing countries.
Groundbreaking research finds small farms are sustainable
8 March 2011
Smallholdings in the South West of England – including ones near Taunton, Bruton, South Petherton and Dorchester – were among those where accounts were examined, owners interviewed and working practices monitored.
Larch Maxey, a Research Fellow at the University, who led the year-long study, said: “These farms’ success turns upside down the established understanding that only large farms are viable.
“The fact that these businesses can succeed on tiny pockets of marginal land flies in the face of the perceived wisdom on farm viability.
“A wide range of enterprises are based on these small farms, from the traditional market gardening of fruits and vegetables, to more innovative ventures such as champagne cider.
“Adding value is a key element of success, for example, with producers also processing and marketing food. Enterprises are increasingly spreading risk too – so if one crop or market fails, others are available. And they are developing synergies, such as using waste from one product to support another.”
The report ‘Small is Successful!: Creating sustainable livelihoods on 10 acres or less’' will also inform the current process of developing a National Planning Policy Framework for England.
Maxey added: “Our research shows the value of policies which allow highly sustainable, ‘low acreage livelihoods’ to flourish within the Framework and sets out recommendations to achieve this. This benefits sustainable smallholders, as it replaces the risk of being overlooked with policies which specifically acknowledge and support them.”
Other significant findings from the research include:
• small-scale livelihoods can increase the productivity of marginal land
• the range of enterprises capable of supporting low acreage livelihoods is diverse and growing
• livelihoods often mix and match different enterprise options
• mental attitude and approach are the strongest determinants of success
• high property prices and the planning system are the greatest barriers to growth in this sector.
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