Unveiling farmers' perspectives on urban food policies: The case of farmers' markets in Bologna (Italy)

Abstract

Farmers' Markets (FMs) are increasingly recognised for their transformative potential in the food system, as they represent a viable alternative to large-scale food distribution in urban areas. Given their increasing importance at city level, ad hoc urban food policies to regulate FMs have been implemented by several Italian municipalities. However, both policymakers and academia tend to focus on consumers' opinions and needs, while farmers' perspectives on urban food policies regulating FMs have been overlooked, as well as the relationship between various levels of governance involved in FMs. The present research aims to fill this gap by delving into farmers' drivers for selling at FMs, as well as their perceptions on FMs Regulation in Bologna (Italy). The research adopts a Multi-Level Governance (MLG) theoretical approach to show the relationships between the three levels of governance involved in FMs (macro, meso, micro) and provide recommendations on how the governance dynamics can be improved. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, analysing questionnaire answers with a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods to gather comprehensive insights from FMs farmers. In terms of quantitative methods, the answers of 140 FMs participants are analysed through an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and a Multinomial Logistic regression model (MNL).

Key findings maintain that farmers' drivers for selling at FMs in Bologna are aligned with the value proposition of Bologna FMs Regulation. Thus, the relationship with consumers, which allows for direct exchange and increased consumers awareness, is the main driver. However, farmers believe the Municipality (the macro level) could further address FMs farmers' needs and drivers (the micro level). The meso level of governance, namely FMs organising associations, should be an intermediary between the macro and the micro levels, that better informs and processes the flow of information and decisions between the two. By analysing farmers' perspectives, this study offers significant insights into the dynamics of local food systems and the role of urban policies in shaping these systems. It highlights the need for harmonising regulatory frameworks with the needs of FMs farmers to improve urban food policies. The findings from Bologna can be helpful for other cities facing similar challenges in urban food system governance.