Farmers' intention to adopt low-carbon agricultural technologies to mitigate climate change

Abstract

Climate change is one of the main crises in the world primarily due to greenhouse gas emissions. The agricultural sector is a key factor in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, this study aims to analyze farmers' intentions to use low-carbon agricultural technologies. Based on a theoretical framework adapted from the comprehensive action determination model, data were collected through questionnaires distributed among 373 farmers in the southern region of West Azarbaijan province, Iran. Factors influencing farmers' intentions were identified using a structural equation model. The results indicated that attitude (β = 0.532), habits (β = 0.282), and objective constraints (β = 0.105) significantly influenced farmers’ intentions to adopt low-carbon agricultural technologies. The model predicted 68.4% of the variance in farmers' intentions. All predictors in the comprehensive action determination model demonstrated robustness and significant positive relationships, except for subjective constraints. Additionally, the model effectively explained normative processes, habitual processes, situational influences, and intentional processes among farmers. This research suggests policy solutions to promote the adoption of low-carbon agricultural technologies by farmers in response to climate change, thereby fostering sustainable agriculture in the region. When developing future plans for climate change adaptation, planners should use the comprehensive action determination model as a fundamental guideline. This model is essential for both mitigating climate change and enhancing behavioral intentions, which are critical objectives.