An empirical analysis of organic micro-level agricultural knowledge and innovation systems (microAKIS) in three federal states in Germany

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose To achieve the ambitious policy goals concerning organic agriculture in Germany, it is crucial to understand which actors and institutions in the German organic microAKIS are most important to farmers and how farmers within the system share knowledge. This study explores these questions by focusing on farmers who are members of organic producer associations (OPAs) in three federal states in Germany. Design/methodology/approach Fieldwork was conducted in Brandenburg, Lower Saxony, and Bavaria from April to September 2021 through qualitative research utilizing participant observation on organic farms and in-person and Zoom interviews with farmers and experts in the organic agricultural sector. Findings This study concurs with previous studies’ findings that German organic farmers obtain and exchange knowledge, information, and innovations from a wide variety of sources surrounding their farm business as a whole; however, regarding agricultural practices and technologies, fellow farmers and OPAs are the most important sources. Practical implications Through comparing the microAKIS in Brandenburg, Lower Saxony, and Bavaria this paper explores how farmers in different states depend diversly on state structures, how in the organic sector farmers rely heavily on the private sector for knowledge and information exchanges surrounding agricultural practices and technologies, and how these networks can be improved. This enables discussions on advancing the sector and meeting policy goals by addressing farmers’ needs. Theoretical implications The microAKIS framework is advanced by engaging in a comparative analysis and bottom-up approach to identify significant actors according to farmers in the organic sector in Germany. Originality/value This study outlines the individuals and organizations that make up the organic microAKIS in Germany, which has been underexplored in the fast-growing organic sector, and utilizes empirical evidence to display farmers’ perspectives.