Farmers’ perceptions of organic certification standards: evidence using Likert scale analysis

This study explores how organic farmers in the province of Parma (Emilia-Romagna region, Italy) perceive organic certification standard. Data were collected between 2023-2024 through in depth semi-structured interviews. Farmers’ perceived drivers, barriers and general attitudes toward organic certification were measured using a five-point Likert scale. Results show that farmers strongly value the health and environmental benefits, particularly the reduction of exposure to chemical inputs and improvements in soil fertility. The adoption of standards is also associated with personal satisfaction and access to public support (CAP payments). However, economic advantages appear more limited: lower score are reported for price premiums and expanded market opportunities. Regarding obstacle, the main concerns relate to the high cost of production inputs and certification cost. While, bureaucracy procedure are not perceived as obstacle for current organic farmers but can be a potentially barrier for farmers that decided to be convert to organic farming. Overall, organic certification is perceived as environmentally valuable but economically challenging, especially considering that it does not always offer price premium benefits. Nevertheless, 93% of farmers affirm that will continue to be organic in the next three years