Economic and Social Sustainability through Organic Agriculture: Study of the Restructuring of the Citrus Sector in the “Bajo Andarax” District (Spain)

Juan Torres,Diego Valera,Carlos Herrero-Sánchez,Luis Belmonte

doi:10.3390/su8090918

Abstract

Over 1000 hectares of citrus fruits crops are grown in the Bajo Andarax district in Almeria (Spain). The withdrawal of EU subsidies for conventional production led to a drastic loss of economic profitability of the holdings and, consequently, the abandonment of most of the conventionally managed farms of the district. In this context, a restructuring of the citrus sector from conventional to organic farming was implemented as a strategic measure to achieve the long-term sustainable development of the holdings. This study examines the citrus sector of the district and performs a comprehensive evaluation of the economic sustainability of this shift from conventional to organic production. In addition, the impact of the restructuring of the sector on the social sustainability both at the farm level and at the municipality level is studied. The results of the study are of interest to other agricultural areas of compromised profitability in which a shift towards organic production can represent a viable alternative for the economic and social sustainability of the holdings.

Highlights

The ability of any sector to support a defined level of development is directly linked to the fulfillment of the principles of sustainability [1]
Oranges are the most commonly grown citrus fruit in the world, and this holds true for Spain, where 148,777 hectares were grown last year [5]
SAT Cítricos del Andarax accounts for 66.78% of the employment provided by private companies in these municipalities [19], which, in turn, provides ideal conditions for the study of the impact of the farmers’ association on the economic and social sustainability of the territory

Summary

Introduction

The ability of any sector to support a defined level of development is directly linked to the fulfillment of the principles of sustainability [1]. Sustainability is a three-dimensional concept that encompasses economic, environmental, and social aspects [2]. In this context, the shift from conventional to organic farming practices can contribute to the sustainability of those areas that would be otherwise at risk of abandonment, as reported by other authors [3]. Spain has a long tradition in citrus fruit agriculture and has increased its total production in recent years. In 2015, Spain dedicated 299,518 hectares to citric crops, 7020 of which were farmed organically. Oranges are the most commonly grown citrus fruit in the world, and this holds true for Spain, where 148,777 hectares were grown last year [5]

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