Balancing Biodiversity and Economic Viability: Farmers' Motivations and Challenges in Nature-Protected Areas

Abstract

Biodiversity loss is one of the most urgent environmental challenges, particularly in nature-protected areas (NPAs), where agriculture and conservation come together. Farmers play a central role in land management and can significantly influence ecological outcomes through their practices. Despite the agricultural sector being widely recognised as having an impact on biodiversity, participation in conservation efforts is inconsistent and the levels of commitment are often insufficient. This study looks at the economic, social, and psychological drivers that influence farmers' engagement in biodiversity conservation within NPAs, using Maslow's Hierachy of Needs as an analytical framework. <br/> The research is based on a unique triangulation of complementary qualitative and quantitative findings derived from the "Diversity of Insects in Nature-Protected Areas (DINA)"-project and its subsequent associated studies, which examine farmers' land use trilemma, hesitations and aspirations. The DINA-project was funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) as part of the Action Programme for Insect Conservation. Together, these empirical data sources collected provide a multi-faceted understanding of the factors influencing farmers' willingness to implement biodiversity-friendly practices. Applying Maslow's model to the agricultural sector provides a structured approach to understanding how economic security, regulatory stability, social belonging, recognition, and self-actualization collectively determine farmers' decision-making processes. <br/> By integrating psychological theory with solid empirical evidence from the DINA-project and its related studies, this research offers a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex motivational factors and constrains that farmers deal with in biodiversity conservation. The findings demonstrate that effective interventions have to address the full spectrum of farmers' needs, from economic security to self-actualization, and also that they have to be integrated into a supportive social and regulatory environment. Combining Maslow's motivational theory with empirical insights produced by the research streams provides a comprehensive basis for designing targeted, flexible, and socially embedded conservation incentives that align with the realities of farming life. In conclusion, the study recognises that a meaningful and sustainable engagement with biodiversity conservation in NPAs depends on a holistic understanding of farmers' needs and motivations. Only by addressing these needs in a structured and integrated manner can policymakers strengthen the long-lasting commitment necessary to biodiversity-friendly practices.