LIVELIHOOD RESILIENCE OF VEGETABLE FARMERS: EFFICACY OF ORGANIC FARMING IN DEALING WITH CLIMATE CHANGE IN JAVA, INDONESIA

Abstract

Some researchers believe that organic farming can improving farmer's resilience in dealing with climate change. Livelihood resilience is attributed to buffer capacity, self-organization, and learning capacity. Therefore, this study aims to 1) compare buffer capacity, self-organization, and learning capacity between organic and conventional farmers, 2) compare the level of livelihood resilience between organic and conventional farmers, and 3) know important determinants that influence the livelihood resilience of farmers in the face of climate change. Data were obtained through a survey involving 112 organic farmers and 112 conventional farmers in Java, Indonesia. The t-test was used to find out the buffer capacity, self-organization and learning capacity and livelihood resilience of farmers in the face of climate change. Ordinary least square was used to find out important determinants that influence the livelihood resilience level of farmers. The analysis shows that buffer capacity and learning capacity of organic farmers are better than that of the conventional farmers. Organic farmers have better livelihood resilience than conventional farmers. Important determinants that influence the farmer's level of resilience are cooperation networks, adaptation strategies and accessibility to extension services, and climate information and training. The study recommends that policymakers need to develop organic farming and supporting institutions to increase farmer's resilience in dealing with climate change.