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Financial and environmental sustainability of rice cultivation in Thessaloniki

Pagoni Vasileia

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Summary

Rice fields, for decades, have been one of the main crops of the Prefecture of Thessaloniki. They are located near protected areas, directly affected by water resources, and act as artificial seasonal wetlands contributing to balanced functioning of the ecosystem. However, the intensive agriculture has partly contributed to the environmental degradation that has been observed. This paper aims to investigate to what extent rice farmers apply the regulations and guidelines that the state has established for safe food production and consumer protection. It is also being investigated whether the cultivation methods affect the cost of production of the good and therefore the agricultural exploitation itself. For the implementation of this work, the quantitative and qualitative research methodology was chosen. Regarding the application of plant protection, the results do not deviate from the findings of corresponding research. The participants in their largest percentage follow what is written in the legislation, however, in some cases actions that do not conform to the rules are also recorded. There has not been encouraging results for the operation of the technoeconomic analysis of agricultural holdings despite the fact that the cultivation methods followed are largely identical to what is proposed. We conclude, firstly, that it is necessary for a sustainable future for everybody involved to receive the required training on correct plant protection practices, so that they are able to make the right decisions. Regarding the cost of production of the agricultural good, the financial support of the farmers is required from the state and providing incentives to implement new, more modern and environmentally friendlier farming practices. Thus farmers will continue to produce and in addition, more young people will turn to the primary sector, thereby enhancing the production of better quality products for consumption.

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