Boosting Rice Farmers' Profits While Saving the Environment in Peru
The study looked at how small-scale rice farmers in Peru can balance making money with protecting the environment. They studied 65 farmers and found that those who made the most profit also used fewer resources like labor and pesticides, which helped the environment. The top earners had higher yields and better efficiency in using water and nutrients. Farmers said they need more help dealing with pests, diseases, and water shortages. They also struggle with unfair prices for their rice and lack access to credit and markets. Overall, the study shows that farmers can make more money without harming the environment if they get better support and tools to improve their farming practices.