Factors Affecting Sustainability in the Smallholder Dairy Farming in Bangladesh: Using A Tripple-Bottom-Line the Effect of Engagement as Mediator and Policy as Moderator

Abstract

The global population is growing, with Bangladesh set to reach 300 million people by 2050, up from 165 million. This puts significant strain on resources like dairy, nutrition, and food. Smallholder farmers currently provide 80% of whole milk, but their need for increased output threatens the environment. Sustainable dairy farming, beneficial for economics, society, and the planet, is challenging for these farmers due to their socioeconomic circumstances. This study addressed this issue by evaluating the impact of economic, social, and environmental factors on sustainable dairy farming, employing the Total-Bottom-Line Model, with engagement as a mediator and policy as a moderator. The study, a case study on PRAN Dairy Limited in Bangladesh, used a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research. Findings showed that economic and social factors, mediated by engagement, significantly affect sustainable dairy farming. Environmental factors, mediated by engagement, were not significant, and policy as a moderator had no significant impact. This research provides valuable insights for stakeholders, but future studies should expand the scope and sample size for more comprehensive results.