Harnessing Farmers' knowledge and perceptions for health-risk reduction in wastewater-irrigated agriculture

Bernhard Keraita, Pay Drechsel, Razak Seidu, Priyanie Amerasinghe, Olufunke Cofie, Flemming Konradsen

    Publikation: Bidrag til bog/antologi/rapportBidrag til bog/antologiForskning

    Abstract

    This chapter addresses the importance of understanding farmers’ knowledge and
    perceptions on health-risk and risk-reduction measures for the development of
    mutually acceptable risk-management strategies. Drawing on studies from different
    countries, the chapter shows that it is not realistic to expect high risk awareness.
    In cases where farmers are aware of health risks, they assess mitigation measures
    in view of their overall impact on work efficiency and crop yield rather than only
    the potential health benefits to be gained. The chapter asserts that for on-farm
    risk-reduction measures to be successful, it is pertinent that farmers’ needs and
    constraints are incorporated into the formulation of recommended practices.
    This might happen through indigenous processes but can be supported through
    farm-based participatory approaches where farmers and scientists work together
    in developing risk reduction measures. An important first step is the identification
    of mutually accepted problem indicators. Where health benefits for farmers and
    consumers are not sufficient reasons for the adoption of safer practices, other
    triggers have to be identified as well as appropriate communication channels for
    effective outreach.
    OriginalsprogEngelsk
    TitelWastewater Irrigation and Health : Assessing and Mitigating risk in Low-income Countries
    RedaktørerPay Drechsel, Christopher A Scott, Liqa Raschid-Sally, Mark Redwood, Akiça Bahri
    Antal sider16
    UdgivelsesstedLondon
    ForlagEarthscan
    Publikationsdato2010
    Sider337-353
    Kapitel17
    ISBN (Trykt)978-1-84407-795-3, 978-1-84407-796-0
    ISBN (Elektronisk)978-1-55250-475-8
    StatusUdgivet - 2010

    Citationsformater