Abstract
Introduction
The majority of the working population in developing countries' agricultural sector are smallholder farmers, with over 80% cultivating lands below two hectares. Despite occupying only 12% of the world's agricultural land, these small farms produce 80% of the food in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Smallholder farms are defined as those with limited capital and assets, household labor, and less than 2 hectares of land. They typically involve mixed farming practices managed by family members, producing various crops and domestic animals. The average size of agricultural units in low- to middle-income countries has decreased from 1960 to 2000, while increasing in some middle- to high-income countries and almost all high-income countries. Smallholder farmers in rural areas of low-income countries make up more than two-thirds of the world's poor and food-insecure population. Assessing the sustainability of rural livelihoods for smallholder farmers focuses on their resilience and decision-making to sustain their livelihoods. It aims to identify livelihood sources, strategies, and goals to provide support and create a conducive environment for them. Smallholder farmers in developing countries face challenges in achieving sustainable livelihoods due to unfavorable social, economic, and political conditions. Sustainable livelihood, which challenges conventional views on poverty, participation, and development, has gained significant attention in rural development discussions, emphasizing livelihood insecurities as a root cause of rural poverty.
Materials and Methods
This research adopts a quantitative approach, specifically field research, in terms of practical purpose, variable monitoring, data collection method, and generalization. It employs a descriptive-analytical research design using a survey method. A researcher-made questionnaire was used as the research tool, validated through input from academic staff in the agricultural extension and education department of Azad University, Garmsar branch. The sample size of 500 individuals was determined using Cochran's formula, with an accuracy level of three-hundredths of the range of the smallest and largest average farm sizes in the four studied provinces. Simple random sampling with proportional allocation was employed to select household heads. The study utilized a multi-stage sampling method to select provinces, cities, and villages. Economic, social, environmental, and institutional indicators were identified to assess the sustainability of smallholder farmers' livelihoods in the studied provinces. Social indicators included negative indicators transformed into positive indices using a fixed value subtraction method. Data were collected through electronic questionnaires and correspondence with relevant authorities. The differences in measurement units and scales of indicators were resolved using the average division method.
Results and Discussion
After calculating and weighting the indicators, Gilan province ranked highest in terms of livelihood sustainability, followed by Hormozgan, Alborz, and Yazd provinces. The distribution of smallholder farmers indicated that the majority were in a state of livelihood instability. Economic sustainability was found to be better than other dimensions, contrary to previous research findings. Social sustainability was highest in Hormozgan province, with social and human capital being the most stable aspects of livelihood. Gilan province's favorable environmental and climatic conditions contributed to its higher livelihood sustainability compared to other provinces. Strengthening economic activities, both agricultural and non-agricultural, in rural areas is crucial for sustainable rural development. Financial literacy and extension services were found to positively impact livelihood sustainability. The study identified a gap in farmers' financial management practices and emphasized the importance of extension services in enhancing livelihood sustainability. Limitations of the study include potential biases in the random sampling method used.
Conclusions
Overall, the research findings highlight the importance of addressing challenges faced by smallholder farmers in achieving sustainable livelihoods and emphasize the role of various factors, including economic, social, and environmental aspects, in enhancing livelihood sustainability.