Hi Ronald,
Ronald Nigh wrote:
> The traditional answer to this [decreasing transaction costs] is marketing
> coops. Farmers reduce their transaction costs and achieve adequate scale by
> marketing together. This is particularly feasible if everyone follows a series
> of agreed upon
> procedures (like organic production) Certification costs can also be lessened.
>
> Another solution is community supported agriculture, direct marketing
> between growers and consumers.
>
> An emerging, experimental approach is the internet...
>
Agreed on all three. I am more skeptical of the possibilities on the internet,
but haven't really thought through them at this time. The important point is that
consumers know what kind of system they are supporting. The CSA, direct marketing
etc that is community based and relatively easy for eaters to know their farmers
is my preferred method. I also think that is least susceptible to power
inequities etc. However, I know that it doesn't work for everybody all the time.
Thus, I think that social/ethical labeling (like the Fair Trade label) is going to
be critical in the whole organic, sustainable movement.
Mary
-- Mary Hendrickson, Ph.D. Food Circles Networking Project University of Missouri Outreach and Extension 106 Sociology Columbia, MO 65211Website: http://www.foodcircles.missouri.edu Tele: 573-882-7463 Fax: 573-882-1473
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