Factors influencing adoption of manure separation technology in the Netherlands. (1st March 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gebrezgabher, Solomie A.; Meuwissen, Miranda P.M.; Kruseman, Gideon; Lakner, Dora; Oude Lansink, Alfons G.J.M.
• Is Part Of: Journal of environmental management. Volume 150(2015:Mar.)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 8
• Publication Date: 2015-03-01
• Subjects: Manure separation -- Technology adoption -- Ordered probit -- Factor analysis -- Dairy farming; Environmental policy -- Periodicals; Environmental management -- Periodicals; Environment -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Periodicals; 363.705
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2014.10.029
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4797

Abstract

Abstract: Manure separation technologies are essential for sustainable livestock operations in areas with high livestock density as these technologies result in better utilization of manure and reduced environmental impact. Technologies for manure separation have been well researched and are ready for use. Their use, however, has been limited to the Netherlands. This paper investigates the role of farm and farmer characteristics and farmers' attitudes toward technology-specific attributes in influencing the likelihood of the adoption of mechanical manure separation technology. The analysis used survey data collected from 111 Dutch dairy farmers in 2009. The results showed that the age and education level of the farmer and farm size are important variables explaining the likelihood of adoption. In addition to farm and farmer characteristics, farmers' attitudes toward the different attributes of manure separation technology significantly affect the likelihood of adoption. The study generates useful information for policy makers, technology developers and distributors in identifying the factors that impact decision-making behaviors of farmers. Highlights: We assess factors that determine likelihood of adoption of manure separation. We test the hypothesis that farmers' attitudes condition farmers' intention to adopt. Farmers' attitudes toward technology are important determinants of strategy to adopt. Young farmers with low education and bigger farm size are more likely to adopt. Results are useful in identifying factors impacting farmer's decision-making behavior.