Around 43% of New Zealanders think arable farmers here are better or significantly better than the global average at using sustainable farming practices, while 46% think we’re about the same. This might sound OK, but 79% still think there is room for improvement on arable farms.
The survey, run by Research First defined sustainable farming as focusing on responsible and thoughtful management of natural resources. Among other things, involving reducing carbon emissions, minimising water, air, and soil pollution, promoting biodiversity, and managing water carefully. It then asked participants whether they thought specific farm types in New Zealand are better or worse than the global average in terms of use of sustainable practices.
These surveys were conducted with nationally representative samples of New Zealanders. For further information please contact liz@researchfirst.co.nz
August 2022