Local Mapping of EPGs EN Local mapping of EPGs EN | Page 24

The situation for producers is much more serious . For many producers and farmers the entry to the EPG is an ideal mean to survive . Knowing the buyers and their friendly relationship simplifies things greatly . In particular , the agreements that are made at the level of EPG , greatly simplify life for small farmers because in this way , for example , the producers of vegetable plan in advance with consumers the sowing season , define what and the quantities that may cultivate , and often the product purchases are paid with 3 or more months in advance . It is a very concrete example of solidarity and risk sharing between consumers and producers , which is diametrically opposed to the terms offered to the farmers from the real " free " market . However , it must be taken into consideration that the whole thing can be made only after that between the producer and the consumer has been established a high level of confidence . As you can be inferred from examples provided in the Desk research , after a certain period the producers tend to understand the importance of EPGs and to leave the traditional market .
There are several reasons why people become part of such groups . Most of them do it to ensure themselves the purchase of organic food at a reasonable price . However , it is also very important the personal contact with the producer . In today ' s world , with such numerous scandals related to food industry that we hear talking about so often , it is not something trivial to have some trust in this field . Most of the people who joined these groups are members of families with small children , follow people with health problems , older people , searching for companionship and affection , and then the younger generations , which are much more aware of issues such as ecology and sustainability .
What can you buy in EPGs and what are the advantages of these gr oups ?
The EPGs are characteristic formations within the critical consumerism . These characteristics differentiate the EPGs from other types of groupings of citizens that simply buy something together . You cannot buy / sell within the EPGs a special list : the only important thing is for everyone in the group to be able to agree and to cooperate . There is the need to find a balance between the needs of all members and to define what criteria will be used for the product selection clearly . For example , it is not mandatory to buy certified environmentally friendly products , but all members of the group must agree with this . Alternatively , you can choose to give preference to environmentally friendly products , provided they are local . Alternatively , as in Istria , it can be settled that the producer does not
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