Providing of agro-ecological public goods in agriculture a case study from the Eastern Rhodopes in Bulgaria

Angel Sarov, Riste Elenov

Abstract: This article presents case studies of contractual relations for the provision of agroecological public goods in agriculture in Bulgaria. A qualitative analysis is applied, based on in-depth interviews with five livestock
breeders who have contracted with an agricultural cooperative for delivery, production and services located in the Eastern Rhodopes. The case studies are in accordance with a hybrid type contractual framework and include a “Collective Action Contract” and “Performance Based Contract”. The provision of agroecological public goods are in the interest of stakeholders and has a positive impact on the preservation of the landscape, and biodiversity and enhancing tourist interest in the region. The challenge is identified in that the payments for the commitments are not provided in an amount that fully compensates the farmers. As a result of the analysis, the conclusion can be drawn that a purposeful and transparent policy should be implemented to fairly compensate agricultural producers for the provision of public goods.

Keywords: agriculture; agroecology; case study; contract relationships; public goods

Date published: 2023-06-30