Beyond food: Towards a multifunctional agriculture

Abstract

The policy changes to account for local environmental effects, and the way farmers have developed new livelihoods, are parallel examples of the multiple functions and values of a localized, small-scale agriculture. Recreation and entertainment are rapidly growing sectors of post-industrial economies. Local farms profit from the growing demand for diversity in products, entertainment, education and recreation by providing more than food commodities.

The biodiversity, cultural heritage, landscape, food security and rural community effects of agriculture are used as arguments when developed countries defend their right to support and protect agriculture. The different value aspects of agriculture have been given the label “multifunctionality” and include what is called “non-trade concerns” in a WTO context.

While large-scale agriculture may be efficient in producing food and fiber as commodities, small-scale farms can be competitive as suppliers of services that are valued at a local level.