Willing to be the change: Perceived drivers and barriers to participation in urban smart farming projects

Richter, Isabell; Neef, Nicolas E.; Moghayedi, Alireza; Owoade, Folasade Mary; Kapanji-Kakoma, Kutemba; Sheena, Francis; Ewon, Kaliyadasa

Abstract

Psychological research on perceptions on urban smart farming is scarce, especially in a Global South context. To reach wide acceptance of urban smart farming and create effective strategies for the implementation of this innovative technology, we need insights into people’s perceptions. In this article, we investigate the factors that motivate or hinder people to engage in community-led urban smart farming projects. We present a systematic assessment of perceived drivers and barriers for urban smart farming, based on a survey study in three African countries, Nigeria, South Africa and Zambia. Using multiple regression analysis, we could identify country-specific drivers and barriers. People’s demographics have been found to play less of a role in predicting intentions to be involved in urban smart farming projects. We recommend considering the human dimension when promoting innovative technologies such as urban smart farming and encourage practitioners to assess each region individually when promoting innovative farming techniques.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jun 19, 2023
• Online Publication Date: Aug 11, 2023
• Deposit Date: Aug 14, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Aug 15, 2023
• Journal: Journal of Urban Affairs
• Print ISSN: 0735-2166
• Electronic ISSN: 1467-9906
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis (Routledge)
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Pages: 1-19
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/07352166.2023.2232060
• Keywords: Urban Studies, Sociology and Political Science, Geography, Planning and Development
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/11024701
• Additional Information: Peer Review Statement: The publishing and review policy for this title is described in its Aims & Scope.; Aim & Scope: http://www.tandfonline.com/action/journalInformation?show=aimsScope&journalCode=ujua20; Published: 2023-08-11