Survey reveals farmers concerns on yields and revenue loss
A study conducted by global market research firm Kynetec for Bayer highlights that 75 percent of farmers are currently feeling the effects of climate change, with 71 percent expressing concerns about declining yields.
Alarmingly, 60 percent report experiencing substantial revenue losses due to atypical weather events.
In response to these challenges, innovation is key: 75 percent of farmers are willing to adopt new technologies to better manage climate-related issues.
Their motivation stems from a desire for enhanced yields, more resilient farming practices, and secure livelihoods, which are driving the adoption of regenerative and technological methods.
The findings are part of the 2024 Farmer Voice survey, which included insights from 2,000 farmers across the United States, Australia, Brazil, China, Germany, India, Kenya, and Ukraine.
It sheds light on the obstacles, aspirations, and requirements of farmers facing climate change, digital transformation, and economic and political instability.
Rodrigo Santos, a Member of the Board of Management of Bayer AG and President of the Crop Science Division, stated: “The Farmer Voice study underlines that farmers continue to face accelerating economic and environmental challenges in their important work providing food to the world. They want innovation to help them do their jobs better, and an environment in which they can increasingly turn towards regenerative practices making food systems more resilient to the benefit of the planet, food security, and their livelihoods alike.”
Farmers report that the greatest challenges stem from uncertainty and volatility. Over the next three years, more than one-third anticipate issues with weather fluctuations (37 percent) and income volatility (36 percent).
Notably, 29 percent of farmers cite political and regulatory concerns as significant challenges, a figure that has doubled since last year.
Looking ahead, farmers believe access to innovations, particularly in crop protection (41percent) and seeds (36 percent), will greatly benefit their operations.
Regulatory changes are also seen as essential, with 36percent ranking them among the top three advantages.
Digital tools are becoming integral to farmers’ strategies for overcoming challenges and boosting productivity. Currently, about two-thirds utilize these technologies, with another 25 percent planning to adopt them.
The primary motivations for using digital tools include improved crop yields (88percent), cost savings (85percent), and enhanced crop quality (84percent).
The transition to regenerative agriculture is already underway, with over 90percent of farmers implementing at least one regenerative practice, such as crop rotation and soil health monitoring.
Santos said, “One of the most pressing questions is how we can meet the demands of protecting the planet, producing enough food and making sure that farmers can make a living out of their operations.”
Photo Credit: Pexels - Alejandro Barrón