Behavioural drivers and barriers for adopting climate mitigation actions on dairy farms

The adoption of climate mitigation actions on farms has the potential to lessen the effects of climate change on agriculture. The purpose of this study is to identify the behavioural drivers and barriers for adopting climate mitigation actions on dairy farms. This study employed a qualitative methodological approach consisting of 24 semi–structured interviews with dairy farmers in the republic of Ireland. This study provides insights into the drivers and barriers for the adoption of climate mitigation actions at farm level. An increase in workload, being sceptical of the benefits of mitigation actions, and increases in costs incurred were the three biggest barriers for adopting climate mitigation actions at farm level. An increase in revenue and farm productivity, wanting to benefit the environment, and advisory support were the three biggest drivers when adopting climate mitigation actions on farm. From the findings of this study, policy and Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS) recommendations are offered. A call for policies that subsidise the cost of mitigation actions for farmers and promote actions that reduce workload levels on farms are proposed. AKIS recommendations on how agricultural advisors can support farmers when implementing mitigation actions are also offered.