Sustainability and Circularity of the Agri-food Systems: How to Measure It? A First Attempt on the Italian System

Gianni Betti (), Francesca Gagliardi, Andrea Mecca, Angelo Riccaboni and Cristiana Tozzi
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Gianni Betti: Department of Economics and Statistics, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
Francesca Gagliardi: Department of Economics and Statistics, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
Andrea Mecca: Department of Economics and Statistics, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
Angelo Riccaboni: Department of Business and Law, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
Cristiana Tozzi: Santa Chiara Lab, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 7, 1-17

Abstract: The agri-food sector is undergoing profound transformations driven by ecological and digital transitions, as well as evolving consumer and nutritional choices. These shifts pose significant challenges but also open new opportunities for businesses to enhance sustainability and competitiveness through circular economy principles. In response, Spoke 9 of the National Agritech Center (PNRR) has launched a survey to analyze agri-food companies and sustainability practices and promote circular strategies. A large-scale survey conducted in early 2024 gathered data from 3002 agri-food companies, covering 20 Italian regions and six major supply chains (wine, olive oil, dairy, milk, fruit and vegetables, and beekeeping). The study is the first attempt in Italy to get metrics on these topics from agri-food companies, and it provides a comprehensive assessment of circular economy practices in the sector. The key objectives of the work are as follows: (1) developing integrated sustainability indicators; (2) sector-specific circular metrics; (3) identifying best practices and gaps; (4) supporting policy and decision-making; and (5) benchmarking and monitoring.

Keywords: agri-food system; metrics; sustainability; circular economy; sampling (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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