Work

Adoption of voluntary sustainability standards in Australia's agri-food systems: primary producers' challenges and opportunities

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: As awareness of the environmental and social impacts of agri-food systems grows, the adoption of voluntary sustainability standards (VSS) is promoted to encourage sustainable farming practices. However, the adoption of VSS remains limited. There is also a limited understanding of the factors influencing producers’ decisions to adopt or not adopt VSS. This case study aimed to identify agri-food producers’ (1) motivations for (not) adopting VSS, (2) diverse perspectives on drivers and barriers affecting adoption in Australia, and (3) perceived risks of not adopting VSS in the future. We interviewed 254 producers across the Australian horticulture, red meat and seafood sectors. The results revealed key factors influencing VSS adoption including reputation, economic incentives, regulation, farm management, trust, and perceived sustainability outcomes. While adopters consider VSS as valuable for improving their reputation and economic return, wider adoption requires further support. Simplifying certification processes and stronger evidence of economic benefits are needed.

Source: Cleaner and Responsible Consumption

DOI: 10.1016/j.clrc.2025.100354

Authors: Francesco Tacconi, Peggy Schrobback, Enayat A. Moallemi

Institutions: Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Agriculture and Food

Language: English

Topic: Global trade, sustainability, and social impact

Subfield: Strategy and Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,630