Development of a Model for the Evaluation of Signpost Events and their Impact on Farmer Behaviour in Climate Action

This study develops and pilots an evaluation model to assess the effectiveness of the Teagasc Signpost Programme Demonstration Events in promoting climate action among Irish farmers. Set in the context of increasing environmental pressures and national climate targets for the agricultural sector, the Signpost Programme aims to support the adoption of sustainable technologies and practices by showcasing climate mitigation strategies in real farming contexts. Guided by Bennet’s Hierarchy for Programme Evaluation and situated within the Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System (AKIS), this research evaluates both the short- and medium-term impacts of ten farm demonstration events held across diverse enterprises. A mixed method approach was adopted, involving a post-event survey administered via SMS to 83 farmers, followed by a matched sample semi-structured interviews conducted six months later with 48 farmers, and a reflective workshop with Teagasc agricultural advisors. Findings indicate that demonstration events contributed significantly to changes in farmer awareness, knowledge, and intentions to act, with many participants self-reporting improved understanding of climate practices. The six-month follow-up revealed varied levels of practice adoption, highlighting key barriers and enablers along the awareness-knowledge-skills-attitude-action pathway. The workshop further validated the importance of peer learning, tailored content, live demonstrations, and post-event support in encouraging behaviour change. An outcome of this study is a refined evaluation model that captures both immediate learning outcomes and longer-term behavioural shifts, providing a practical tool for ongoing assessment of demonstration events. The model enables continuous improvement and strategic design of future events, ensuring alignment with climate policy goals and farmer needs. As agricultural systems face increasing pressure to decarbonise, understanding and enhancing the impact of demonstration-based learning becomes ever more critical.