Redefining Corn Farming Systems: Exploring the Shift from Linear to Circular Economy in Lucena, Quezon Province

Date

12-2024

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Management

College

College of Economics and Management (CEM)

Adviser/Committee Chair

Ma. Teresa A. Acda

Committee Member

Rolando G. Allam, Jr., Maria Noriza Q. Herrera, Dia Noelle F. Velasco

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Abstract

One of the critical problems that humanity faces in the modern era is the challenge to feed the rapidly growing population (Pandey and Dwivedi, 2020; Circle Economy, 2021). The Food and Agriculture Organization has predicted that food production will have to rise by at least 5.1 billion tonnes by the year 2050 (FAO, 2017). Thus, sustainability in staple crops is necessary. Aside from rice, corn is considered another staple crop in the Philippines. It ranks second to rice in the utilization of agricultural resources. It is used not only for human consumption but also for animal feeds and industrial uses, hence it is a vital crop in the development of the livestock and manufacturing industries (Exconde, 2023). Significantly, data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) states that Quezon Province is the Top Corn Producer in CALABARZON in 2023. Quezon produced 33,267.00 metric tons of corn in 2023, and it remains the top producer of corn in the CALABARZON region accounting for 60.5 percent of the region’s total production of 54,966.52 metric tons.

This study investigated the adoption of circular economy (CE) practices in corn farming within Lucena City, Quezon Province, as a strategy to enhance sustainability in smallholder agricultural systems. Recognizing the limitations of linear farming models, which contribute to resource depletion and environmental degradation, the research examined the enablers and barriers influencing the transition to CE practices. The study aimed to achieve four objectives: to profile corn farmers and understand how their demographic, social, and economic characteristics shape farming practices; to identify and assess internal and external practices and challenges in adopting CE principles; to evaluate the economic, environmental, and social effects of CE practices; and to determine the success factors influencing the shift from linear to circular economy models in corn farming.

Using a qualitative approach, the study collected data through in-depth interviews with farmers and stakeholders from three associations under the Lucena Corn Growers Federation, managing 204 hectares of corn farms. Thematic analysis was employed to derive insights into practices, challenges, and strategies for integrating CE principles. The findings revealed that farmers face significant challenges, including an aging workforce dominated by males, low educational attainment, small-scale farm operations (0–3 hectares), and economic instability due to limited income sources, pest infestations, and fluctuating market prices.

The analysis highlighted emerging CE practices, such as the use of organic fertilizers, crop residue repurposing, and natural pest management. However, persistent linear practices like burning crop residues and reliance on chemical inputs remain barriers to sustainability. Farmers benefit from external support systems like government subsidies, supplier credit, and training programs, but these are inconsistent and insufficient to drive long-term change. The study also identified economic benefits from CE practices, such as cost reduction and revenue growth through improved crop quality, but income diversification remains underexplored. Environmentally, CE practices enhance soil fertility, promote biodiversity, and improve waste management by repurposing resources like chicken manure and crop residues. Socially, they create employment opportunities, foster skill development, and strengthen community collaboration through resource-sharing initiatives.

Four critical enablers were identified as success factors for adopting CE practices: economic incentives, knowledge dissemination, resource accessibility, and policy and institutional support. Economic incentives, including consistent subsidies and market- driven incentives like price premiums for sustainable crops, are essential. Knowledge dissemination through regular training programs and localized communication bridges awareness gaps and enhances farmers’ technical capacity. Improved infrastructure, such as irrigation systems, storage facilities, and affordable sustainable inputs, directly supports resource efficiency. Finally, robust policy frameworks, organized cooperatives, and sustained public-private partnerships provide the institutional backing needed for effective CE adoption.

The study concluded that CE practices offer transformative potential for sustainability in corn farming. They reduce costs, enhance revenue opportunities, improve soil health and waste management, and foster community resilience. However, financial constraints, knowledge gaps, and inconsistent institutional support remain barriers to full-scale adoption. Recommendations of the study included establishing consistent subsidies and market incentives, implementing sustained training programs, enhancing rural infrastructure, and strengthening policy frameworks to support CE adoption. By addressing these areas, the transition to CE practices can lead to sustainable and resilient agricultural systems aligned with global sustainability goals.

Language

English

LC Subject

Corn industry, Circular economy, Food consumption forecasting

Location

UPLB College of Economics and Management (CEM)

Call Number

LG 993 2024 M17 Q43

Notes

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Document Type

Thesis

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