Examining the Conditions for Regional Diffusion of Natural Farming

A Case of the “Shizensaibai” Project in Hakui, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan

Abstract

In recent years, growing concerns regarding environmental and food safety issues have led to an increased interest in eco-friendly agricultural practices, particularly organic farming, in Japan and abroad. Natural farming is a method that refrains from using pesticides, chemical fertilizers or even organic fertilizers. Although it has a smaller environmental footprint than conventional farming, research on natural farming is limited. Therefore, this study focuses on the regional diffusion of natural farming in Hakui, Ishikawa Prefecture, where adoption is well advanced. This study aims to clarify the attributes and management status of natural farming households and analyze the diffusion process of natural farming in Hakui, using Rogers’ theory of innovation diffusion. The results show the conditions necessary for diffusion and the appropriate diffusion agents.