Environmental Literacy among Vegetable Farm Entrepreneurs and its Influence on Green Agricultural Production in Ghana
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37773/ees.v8i2.1533Keywords:
Sustainable Agriculture, Environmental Literacy, Clean Production, Environmental Responsibility, Environmental Knowledge, GhanaAbstract
A global surge in demand for vegetables such as lettuce, cabbage, tomatoes, onions, and eggplants has led to a significant increase in their production, particularly in Ghana. Consequently, many vegetable farm entrepreneurs (VFEs) have adopted farming practices that conflict with the principles of sustainable agriculture. This study investigates the role of environmental literacy in shaping green agricultural production (GAP) behaviour among 473 VFEs in Ghana. Environmental literacy is defined here as knowledge, responsibilities, and values related to the environment, as well as the skills required to translate these into practical action. Drawing on primary survey data, the study employs partial least squares structural equation modelling to examine the pathways through which environmental literacy influences GAP behaviour. The study’s findings indicate a generally low level of environmental literacy among participants; however, it significantly influenced GAP behaviour across the pre-production, production, and post-production phases. The study also identifies GAP willingness as a partial mediator between environmental literacy and GAP behaviour. These insights highlight the crucial role of environmental education in promoting sustainable agricultural practices in emerging economies.
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