Eco-Value and Public Perceptions for Indigenous Farm Animal Breeds and Local Plant Varieties, Focusing on Greece

Martha Tampaki, Georgia Koutouzidou, Athanasios Ragkos, Katerina Melfou and Ioannis A. Giantsis ()
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Martha Tampaki: Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Western Macedonia, 53100 Florina, Greece
Georgia Koutouzidou: Institute of Plant Breeding and Genetic Resources, Hellenic Agricultural Organization—DIMITRA, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
Athanasios Ragkos: Agricultural Economics Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization—DIMITRA, 11528 Athens, Greece
Katerina Melfou: Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Western Macedonia, 53100 Florina, Greece
Ioannis A. Giantsis: Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Western Macedonia, 53100 Florina, Greece

Sustainability, 2022, vol. 14, issue 18, 1-16

Abstract: The present study aims to review the literature on the functioning of short value chains and public perceptions regarding indigenous farm animal breeds (IFABs), local plant varieties (LPVs), and their products. Our work mainly concerns Greece, providing additional concrete examples from the wider Balkan area, which is characterized by high agrobiodiversity and richness in various IFAB and LPV, enhanced by the extensive farming systems that still operate in many parts of the area. To achieve this goal, a systematic literature search of recent relevant studies was performed, followed by a description of their results and conclusions, as well as proposed measures and policies for the conservation and utilization of biodiversity in agricultural and livestock systems. According to our findings, the Balkan region is characterized by a great wealth of local plant varieties and indigenous breeds of farm animals, which is largely recognized by consumers, who would, however, recommend stronger eco-labeling of local agricultural products. Similar data are observed in Greece, which are reinforced by the Mediterranean climatic environment. NGO organizations occasionally play an important role in promoting local agricultural products and creating awareness about the need to preserve local breeds and plant varieties. Finally, the recognition, certification, and measurements carried out by local authorities, as well as EU regulations, are of great importance in highlighting the value of agrobiodiversity from a sustainable point of view.

Keywords: biodiversity; public awareness; consumers; indigenous breed; local variety (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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