Farmers' awareness of eco-efficiency and cleaner production as environmental responsibility: Lithuanian case

The purpose of this study is to disclose farmers' awareness of environmental responsibility in terms of eco-efficiency and cleaner production in the post-soviet bloc. Theoretical modeling and survey methods were applied. Original empirical data were collected in Lithuanian farms in 2019. The results demonstrate that the patterns of farmers' environmental responsibility are diverse when taking into account farm's characteristics (e.g., size, years in operation, type of farming) and demographic farmer's characteristics (e.g., age, gender, education). The major share of Lithuanian farmers stated eco-efficiency and cleaner production characteristics being important factors regarding purchasing decisions of farm equipment and machinery. These factors appeared along with other environmental responsibility characteristics. At the same time, research elucidated the gaps of Lithuanian farmers' environmental responsibility and accordingly relevant policy implications are proposed.

Automated summary

This study aims to reveal farmers' awareness of environmental responsibility in terms of eco-efficiency and cleaner production in post-soviet bloc countries. The results show that Lithuanian farmers consider eco-efficiency and cleaner production characteristics important factors in purchasing farm equipment and machinery, among other environmental responsibility characteristics. The research also identifies gaps in environmental responsibility among Lithuanian farmers and proposes relevant policy implications.