• Energy Research

ABSTRACTThe transport phase is one of the crucial stages that can be improved to reduce the environmental impact of the fresh fruit and vegetable supply chain. In this paper, we calculate the environmental impact of feasible logistic alternatives for the above-mentioned supply chain so as to identify the type of transportation that incurs the lowest environmental costs. Specifically, we consider the early potato supply chain as a case study, as it involves one of the main fresh vegetables exported from Italy. Consumers' willingness to pay for the environmental impact of different logistic chains was obtained through life cycle assessment. Our results show that rail transport could reduce environmental impact in terms of tons of oil equivalent, environmental loads, and fuel consumption while ensuring reasonable shipment times. Development of an efficient rail transport system would be positively considered by consumers, enhancing their preferences for Italian products.

In recent years, the certification of environmental sustainability has been adopted by a large number of farms. A wide range of recent literature proved consumers’ preference and willingness to pay (WTP) for certification claiming for reduced environmental impact of food production, whereas the literature on farmers’ preference for a specific scheme design is scant. This study aims at investigating the possibilities of developing an environmental certification (EC) for agricultural products that is more tailored to farmers’ expectations. Data from an original survey among 116 producers from Italy, Croatia, and Greece were used to investigate the most preferred elements of a hypothetical EC for a general agricultural product, by means of a choice experiment. Although differences emerge in relation to the nationality of respondents, the results on average suggest a clear preference and a higher WTP by farmers for a certification that may guarantee an efficient use of water resources. Furthermore, farmers are found to be more inclined toward a public certifying body and the possibility to receive technical assistance for the scheme adoption.