Identification of barriers to the use of intercropping in 12 European case studies
In the context of the IntercropVALUES project, barriers to the use of intercropping were identified in 12 european case studies, considering the whole value chain. The results of this identification and analysis are compiled in a public report.
Presentation
Despite its potential to increase the sustainability of agricultural systems, intercropping has virtually disappeared from the agricultural landscapes of European countries. What impedes its use?
In the context of the EU IntercropVALUES project, we identified and analysed the barriers preventing the use of intercropping across the food value chain in the contexts of twelve case studies from all over Europe.
In total, almost 200 barriers to intercropping were identified, among which over 50% affect farmers.
The analysis of the identified results in three main findings:
- Barriers are influenced by the type of intercrop implemented, the objective pursued with the implementation of the intercrop, and the context in which the intercrop is implemented,
- Barriers are not limited to technical issues but also include financial, cultural, organizational, knowledge, and market considerations,
- All levels of the food value chain are affected by some barriers to intercropping.
Interested?
The full report is available here.
