Sustainability and circularity in fruit and vegetable production. Perceptions and practices of reduction and valorization of agricultural waste biomass in south-eastern Spain

Abstract

This study aims to conduct an exploratory and comparative analysis between Fruit and Vegetable Producer Organizations (FVPOs) and fruit and vegetable producers that are not part of these organizations (Non-FVPOs) regarding the prioritization, perception, and adoption of sustainable and circular practices. For this purpose, data was collected from both groups through an online survey. Statistical techniques for the comparison of two independent groups (chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and Mann-Whitney U test) were used to examine the differences on a sample of 14 FVPOs and 22 Non-FVPOs from Spain. Although the results show more similarities than differences between the two groups, they highlight that FVPOs are more likely to prioritize environmental factors and implement both green manuring and biodegradable raffia as the main Agricultural Waste Biomass (AWB) reduction and/or valorization practices. In addition, the findings point to the relevance of environmental considerations and specifically to the Sustainable and Circular Production Models (SCPMs) as an alternative to the traditional fruit and vegetable production system. Theoretically, the results mainly contradict resource and first mover advantage arguments by revealing that more resourceful organizations do not necessarily possess better environmental management. This study also provides innovative information and relevant contributions for governments. It allows them to identify aspects that should be strengthened in relation to policies, regulatory frameworks, and/or strategies that promote sustainable and circular production systems for both FVPOs and Non-FVPOs. In addition, it contributes with implications, for organizations and farmers, how to improve actions and opportunities to advance the transition to SCPMs.