GEN FARMS

Gender and Generational Factors in Agricultural Resource Management for Sustainability

As the agricultural sector faces increasing pressure to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, understanding the role of gender and age in shaping farming practices is vital for policy design.

GEN FARMS explores the dynamic interplay between gender, age, and their influence on farm sustainability and innovation. The study utilises a multidisciplinary approach, combining a comprehensive literature review, rigorous quantitative data analysis and qualitative techniques.

Objectives 

GEN FARMS will accomplish several objectives:

• Assess the current involvement of women and younger people in Irish agriculture.
• Examine the influence of women and younger people on farm performance e.g. economic viability, investment and environmental sustainability.
• Analyse the role of gender and generational renewal on the uptake of innovative and sustainable practices and new technologies, and their impact on farm sustainability - economic, environmental and social.
• Utilise qualitative and quantitative methods to further explore the role of women and younger people in on-farm decision making, and any existing barriers to on-farm involvement.
• Propose evidence-based recommendations for promoting more sustainable and equitable farming and ensuring a just transition for Irish agriculture in the face of climate change.

Through a synthesis of existing literature and available data, this research lays the groundwork for in-depth empirical investigations. It seeks to explore the potential of women and younger farmers to drive innovation and adaptive practices that enhance both economic resilience and environmental stewardship. Without new practitioners, skills, and ways of thinking, the sector may face a limited uptake of novel technological, nature- based solutions, and economic stagnation. This would prove detrimental to the agricultural and food system transformation necessary to meet established environmental targets.

By better understanding the intricate relationship between gender, age and farm sustainability, this project contributes to the global discourse on agriculture and underscores the importance of diversity and generational perspectives in shaping the future of farming practices.

Project Duration: 1 year
Co-ordinator: Emma Dillon Emma.Dillon@teagasc.ie
Partner: University College Dublin

Funding

GEN FARMS is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, 2023 Policy & Strategic Studies Research Call