Comparative Economics of Conventional, Organic, and Alternative Agricultural Production Systems

Agricultural production systems are a composite of philosophy, adoptability, and careful analysis risks rewards. The two dominant typologies include conventional organics, while biotechnology (GM) Integrated Pest Management (IPM) represent situational modifiers. We conducted systematic review to weigh the economic merits—as well as intangibles through an lens—of each standalone system plus modifier, where applicable. Overall, 17,485 articles were found between ScienceDirect Google Scholar, with 213 initially screened based on putative relevance. Of those, 82 selected for in-depth analysis, 63 ultimately used. Economically, organic generally outperformed systems. This is largely due their lower costs higher market price. However, farms face yields, especially in fruit, vegetable, animal husbandry sectors. With that said, farming can provide significant local environmental benefits. pest management potentiator either core system. As risk reduction decision-making framework, it labor intensive. this be offset by input reductions without yield penalty compared baseline. Biotechnology rapidly emerging system, notably developing countries. use GM crops results cost yields. its major advantage scale-neutrality. Thus, smaller income farmers may achieve gross margin. main source benefits reduced pesticide use, which implies decreased need fuel labor. Barring external influences such subsidies participation prescriptive labeling programs, should focus la carte approach (as opposed discrete adoption) optimize respective enterprises.