Unearthing ecological sustainability: a study on farmer behavior and the adoption of sustainable rice cultivation practices in Kendayakan Village, Indonesia

Abstract

Ecological agricultural practices serve as a promising method for the conservation of natural resources. Techniques such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and organic farming play a pivotal role in preserving soil fertility, preventing erosion, and minimizing the reliance on synthetic inputs. The establishment and maintenance of healthy soils are essential for the long-term sustainability of agriculture. This study delves into ecological rice cultivation practices and explores the intricate relationship between farmers’ behavioral factors and the adoption of such practices. Conducted in Kendayakan Village, Terisi District, Indramayu Regency. The research involved surveying 60 farmers through accidental sampling techniques. Data collection encompassed farmer characteristics, behavioral factors, and rice cultivation practices. The analysis of the application level of ecological agricultural practices included both descriptive examination and testing using Spearman Rank correlation. The study revealed a moderate level of ecological agriculture application among farmers, particularly in areas such as incorporating straw into the farming system, tillage, and plant pest control. These practices showed a lack of adherence to ecological principles in cultivation. A positive correlation indicates that as motivation and the ability to act increase, the likelihood of applying ecological rice cultivation also increases. On the other hand, internal factors among farmers, including motivation, capacity to act, social norms, and land preparation, demonstrated a positive correlation with the components of ecological agriculture in rice cultivation. To promote sustainable agriculture practices, it is recommended that communication campaigns be developed with a focus on motivational messages, address barriers, and enhance participation in ecological rice cultivation, especially in land preparation and incorporating straw into the soil.