Analysis of barriers of conversion and recommendations for strengthening organic advisory services and capacity building

Abstract

This report, developed as part of the OrganicTargets4EU project, provides a comprehensive analysis of the barriers to conversion to organic farming and outlines strategic recommendations to enhance organic advisory services and capacity building across theEuropean Union. Combining insights from stakeholder workshops, interviews, and detailed case studies, the study examines the multifaceted challenges faced by farmers during the transition from conventional to organic practices. The central objective of the study is to understand the obstacles that hinder organic conversion and to develop strategies that support both new and existing organic farmers. Recognising that conversion is not merely a technical shift but a transformative process encompassing economic, environmental, and social dimensions, the report stresses the need for robust advisory services to guide farmers through these changes. To capture the complexity of the conversion journey, the study gathered a mix of quantitative data and qualitative insights through direct engagement with stakeholders in diverse European contexts