Agricultural production systems are a combination of philosophy, adoptability, and the analysis of risks and rewards. This research identifies conventional and organic farming as the two dominant typologies, while biotechnology and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) act as situational modifiers.
After a systematic review of existing literature, the study found that organic systems generally outperform conventional ones economically, primarily due to lower production costs and higher market prices, even though they often face lower yields in the fruit, vegetable, and animal sectors.
According to the study, IPM can enhance either core system by reducing inputs without a yield penalty, although it remains a labor-intensive decision-making framework. The authors highlight that biotechnology is rapidly emerging, particularly in developing countries, where Genetically Modified (GM) crops lead to higher yields and lower production costs.
Because biotechnology is scale-neutral, it allows smaller and lower-income farmers to achieve higher gross margins while providing environmental benefits through reduced pesticide use.
Ultimately, the researchers suggest that unless external factors like subsidies interfere, farmers should adopt an “a la carte” approach—selecting the best elements from different systems—rather than strictly following a single discrete model to optimize their operations.
Learn more about this study here: https://doi.org/10.3390/economies9020064
References:
Durham, T. C., & Mizik, T. (2021). Comparative Economics of Conventional, Organic, and Alternative Agricultural Production Systems. Economies, 9(2), 64.