Quality of live and quality of work life in organic versus conventional farmers

Abstract

Quality of life (QOL) and quality of work life (QOWL) play a key role in the overall concept of sustainability. In this paper we analyze QOL and QOWL variables in relation to the type of livestock farm (organic/conventional) and the use of some quality label (PDO Protected Designation of Origin, PGI Protected Geographical Indication). Data were collected through regular visits in 2011 to 70 small ruminant farms in Spain using five-point Likert items with 1-5 range. Of all the 70 farms, 6 are organics, 39 have a quality label and 17 use traditional manufacturing methods. The possession of quality labels in the small ruminant farms analyzed seems not to be related with the quality of life and work. Farmers with traditional production show higher valuation of quality of life but not of quality of work. Organic farms provide quality of life and quality of work significantly better than conventional ones.