Sociology is a science that allows us to explore the perceptions, experiences, and adoption of new technologies or innovations. Because soil-biodegradable mulches (BDM) are a new technology, it needs to be studied from a sociological perspective. Research has shown that the major barriers of BDM adoption are insufficient knowledge, high cost of BDM, and unpredictable breakdown. In contrast, the major bridges to adoption are reduced plastic waste, environmental benefits, and interest in further learning about this new and promising technology.
Fact Sheets & Articles
- Goldberger, J.R. and C. Lyons. 2017. Use of plastic mulch films in U.S. strawberry production. Project Report (PDF). 30 Jan. 2020.
Scientific Publications
- Cowan, J. S., Goldberger, J. R., Miles, C. A., and Inglis, D. A. 2015. Creating Tactile Space during a University Extension Field Day Event: The Case of a Sustainable Agriculture Innovation. Rural Sociology, 80: 456–482.
- Dentzman, K. and J.R. Goldberger. 2020. Organic standards, farmers’ perceptions, and the contested case of biodegradable plastic mulch in the United States. J. Rural Studies. 73:203-213.
- Dentzman, K. and J.R. Goldberger. 2020. Plastic scraps: biodegradable mulch films and the aesthetics of ‘good farming’ in US specialty crop production. Agriculture and Human Values 37:83-96.
- Goldberger, J.R., L.W. DeVetter, and K.E. Dentzman. 2019. Polyethylene and biodegradable plastic mulches for strawberry production in the United States: Experiences and opinions of growers in three regions. HortTechnology 29:619-628.
- Goldberger, J., R. Jones, C. Miles, R. Wallace, and D. Inglis. 2015. Barriers and bridges to the adoption of biodegradable plastic mulches for U.S. specialty crop production. Renew. Agr. Food Syst. 30(2):143-153.
- Velandia, M., K.L. DeLong, A. Wszelaki, S. Schexnayder, C. Clark, and K. Jensen. Use of Polyethylene and Plastic Biodegradable Mulches among Tennessee Fruit and Vegetable Growers. HortTechnology 30:212-218.