Input industry influence on farmer decision-making: An example of negative impacts to the environment and farmers

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5 Scopus citations

Abstract

Using Midwest corn farmers’ nitrogen fertilizer use as an example, this chapter illustrates how input industries shape farmers decisions in ways that are harmful to the environment and farmers. The fertilizer industry has expanded to include a range of services, built relationships of trust with farmers, and are a primary source of information guiding fertilizer application rates. Seed companies control commercial corn farmers’ access to seeds, how long varieties are available, and the bulk of all knowledge about these varieties. Contracts for seed corn farmers pit farmers against each other in a competitive tournament system that results in excessive fertilizer application. Seed company representatives also directly tell both commercial and seed corn farmers to add additional fertilizer. These influences contribute to surface and ground water pollution and also increase nitrous oxide emissions, contributing to climate change. Input industries continue to further these negative impacts to farmers, ecosystems, and society.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationHandbook on the Human Impact of Agriculture
PublisherEdward Elgar Publishing Ltd.
Pages51-64
Number of pages14
ISBN (Electronic)9781839101748
ISBN (Print)9781839101731
StatePublished - Jan 1 2021

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Economics, Econometrics and Finance
  • General Business, Management and Accounting
  • General Agricultural and Biological Sciences
  • General Social Sciences

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