High work satisfaction despite high workload among European organic mixed livestock farmers: a mixed-method approach

Abstract Organic mixed livestock farming offers a range of potential benefits for the environment. Due to diversification enterprises, this system can be associated with high workload, which means that it could socially unsustainable. The aim study was understand and explain work satisfaction farmers running an organic farm. Using mixed-method approach, quantitative qualitative data were collected from 102 in seven European countries during face-to-face interviews. We showed first time across Europe different animal species category combinations, farms provide satisfaction, despite workload. By using approach clear framework, we aimed at better understanding satisfaction. Underlying reasons included diversity tasks, opportunities learn, autonomy schedule, perceived acknowledgement by consumers, contribution sustainable food production. Factors contributing identified analysis number units, mental complexity, proportion peaks per year, match between wanted free taken off work. combination allowed deeper farmers’ revealed consistent findings. Future research should investigate relationship capacity innovation, flexibility, adaptation potential.