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Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 November 2020) | Viewed by 80179

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Nikola Puvača

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Engineering Management in Biotechnology, Faculty of Economics and Engineering Management in Novi Sad, University Business Academy in Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
Interests: animal science; nutrition; antimicrobials; antibiotic alternatives; veterinary; biotechnology; genetics; toxicology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Vincenzo Tufarelli

E-Mail Website1 Website2
Guest Editor
Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area (DiMePRe-J), Section of Veterinary Science and Animal Production, University of Bari Aldo Moro, s.p. Casamassima Km 3, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy
Interests: animal nutrition; poultry nutrition; feed science; feed technology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Developing a sustainable organic agriculture and resilient agribusiness sector is fundamental, keeping in mind the value of the opportunity presented by the growing demand for healthy and safe food on a global level, with the expectation for the global population to reach 9.8 billion by 2050 and 11 billion by 2100.

Lately, the main threats in Europe and worldwide are the increasingly dynamic climate change and economic factors related to currency fluctuations. While the current environment policy provides a number of mechanisms to support agribusinesses in mitigating organic food for daily increasing human population and stability of the currency, it does not contemplate the relative readiness of individuals and businesses to act properly.

Organic farming is the practice that relies more on using sustainable methods to cultivate crops and produce food animals, with avoiding of chemicals and dietary synthetic drug inputs that do not belong to the natural ecosystem. Organic agriculture can also contribute to meaningful socioeconomic, ecologically sustainable development, and significantly in the development of the agribusiness sector, especially in developing countries.

This Special Issue welcomes papers focused on the latest knowledge and innovations on sustainable organic agriculture, rural development, agricultural economy, policy and management, sustainable food technology, and food safety principles. Both review and research papers are welcome to show originality and make a significant contribution to the scope of the Special Issue.

Dr. Nikola Puvača
Dr. Vincenzo Tufarelli
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Sustainability
  • Organic farming
  • Economy
  • Business
  • Agribusiness
  • Organic food/feed
  • Sustainable rural development

Published Papers (21 papers)

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Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

3 pages, 196 KiB  
Editorial
Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector
by Nikola Puvača and Vincenzo Tufarelli
Sustainability 2022, 14(17), 10781; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su141710781 - 30 Aug 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1087
Abstract
With the expectation that the global population will reach 9 [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

13 pages, 5438 KiB  
Article
Plant Protection Products Residues Assessment in the Organic and Conventional Agricultural Production
by Vojislava Bursić, Gorica Vuković, Magdalena Cara, Marija Kostić, Tijana Stojanović, Aleksandra Petrović, Nikola Puvača, Dušan Marinković and Bojan Konstantinović
Sustainability 2021, 13(3), 1075; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13031075 - 21 Jan 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2737
Abstract
The organic food is progressively enticing purchasers’ attention, as it is recognized to be better than the food produced by the conventional agriculture and more sustainable for the natural environment. Pesticides and their metabolites can enter the human body via food and water. [...] Read more.
The organic food is progressively enticing purchasers’ attention, as it is recognized to be better than the food produced by the conventional agriculture and more sustainable for the natural environment. Pesticides and their metabolites can enter the human body via food and water. In the food production, over 60 thousand chemical agents are applied, while 90% of the harmful substances are consumed. The organic production is based on the qualitative and healthy food using the natural resources in an ecologically sustainable way. The European Regulations set the maximum pesticide levels (MRLs) in the organic products, which are also regulated by The United States Department of Agriculture in their National program supported by The United States Environmental Protection Agency. It is imperative to bear in mind that in the products from the organic production, the multiple detections cannot be tolerated, i.e., that one product cannot contain more than two detected pesticide residues. In this paper, a multi-residue pesticide method has been developed to determine the pesticides in the agricultural products from the organic and conventional production. In this work, 60 pesticides were analyzed using a simple QuEChERS sample preparation procedure, followed by LC-MS/MS. The tomato, potato, apple, and carrot samples from the organic and conventional products were collected from the market and the pesticide residues assessment comparing the organic to the conventional was done. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
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12 pages, 825 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Organic Corn Production with the Use of Flame Weeding as the Most Sustainable Economical Solution
by Miloš Rajković, Goran Malidža, Mirela Tomaš Simin, Dragan Milić, Danica Glavaš-Trbić, Maja Meseldžija and Sava Vrbničanin
Sustainability 2021, 13(2), 572; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13020572 - 09 Jan 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2566
Abstract
Flame weeding is an alternative method of weed control. Essentially, it is a supplement to other physical and mechanical processes used in organic production. Weed control costs have a large share of the total cost of crop production. This study aimed to investigate [...] Read more.
Flame weeding is an alternative method of weed control. Essentially, it is a supplement to other physical and mechanical processes used in organic production. Weed control costs have a large share of the total cost of crop production. This study aimed to investigate hand weed hoeing’s cost-effectiveness, accompanied by inter-row cultivation and flame weeding applied in organic maize production using two different machines to determine the economically best solution. For this purpose, the prototype flame weeder and commercial flame-weeding machinery were used. Designed primarily for smaller fields, the prototype flame weeder was equipped with a cultivator and a 70 kg propane bottle. Commercial Red Dragon flame weeder, fitted with an 800 kg propane tank and featuring no cultivation implements, is designed for larger areas. The analysis has shown that hand hoeing produced a higher yield (8.3 t/ha in total), but it contributed significantly to the production costs. The costs per hectare decreased when the prototype flame weeder and the commercial Red Dragon flame weeder were used compared to hand hoeing. More beneficial economic impacts were recorded when the prototype flame weeder was used (489.39 €/ha) than in applying the Red Dragon flame weeder (456.47 €/ha). The efficacy of flame weeding is somewhat limited and could be enhanced by additional hand hoeing, if the effect of the machine in terms of weeding is observed. However, the analysis has shown that, in this case, investments in additional hand hoeing are not economically justified because the operating costs incurred therein (168 €/ha) were not met by a yield increase of 500 kg/ha, i.e., a surplus revenue of 100 €/ha. Moreover, the economic impacts of flame weeding would be considerably more significant in larger fields. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
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22 pages, 1165 KiB  
Article
A Profile of Organic Food Consumers—Serbia Case-Study
by Vuk Radojević, Mirela Tomaš Simin, Danica Glavaš Trbić and Dragan Milić
Sustainability 2021, 13(1), 131; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13010131 - 25 Dec 2020
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3895
Abstract
In this paper, the authors analyze products from the organic farming system from consumption and consumers. The research aimed to determine the characteristics of the Serbian organic market, discover attitudes, practices, and features of different organic food consumers and identify factors that influence [...] Read more.
In this paper, the authors analyze products from the organic farming system from consumption and consumers. The research aimed to determine the characteristics of the Serbian organic market, discover attitudes, practices, and features of different organic food consumers and identify factors that influence organic products’ purchase. This was done following the theoretical framework of green marketing, which refers to the holistic management process responsible for identifying, anticipating, and satisfying customers and society’s needs for profitably and sustainability. The research for this study was conducted in Novi Sad and Belgrade in late 2015 and early 2016. The sample included 496 respondents over 18 years of age, varying levels of education, marital status, and other sociodemographic characteristics. The sample was divided into three internally homogeneous yet mutually heterogeneous clusters according to three criteria: factors that generally influence their food purchasing decisions, their opinions regarding characteristics of food products and their eating habits, and their sociodemographic characteristics. The analysis shows that organic consumers can be divided into three clusters with corresponding components related to aspects of products that are sold in the Serbian market. In Cluster 1, respondents who assign the least importance to whether they eat “healthy” products and to the number of calories in those products are presented. Cluster 2 respondents care most about what they consume, and in Cluster 3, respondents assign importance to eat “healthy” food. The findings of this study show that the decision whether to buy organic products or not is predominantly determined by the price and quality of products (which is also related to the socio-economic characteristics of consumers) so that eco-marketing should therefore be more directed towards those consumers who are already “more environmentally and health-conscious”, because in this way, the desired results of improving the domestic market of organic products will be achieved. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
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15 pages, 609 KiB  
Article
Socioeconomics Determinants to Adopt Agricultural Machinery for Sustainable Organic Farming in Pakistan: A Multinomial Probit Model
by Muhammad Waqar Akram, Nida Akram, Hongshu Wang, Shahla Andleeb, Khalil Ur Rehman, Umair Kashif and Syed Farhaan Hassan
Sustainability 2020, 12(23), 9806; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12239806 - 24 Nov 2020
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3482
Abstract
Urbanization and low productivity are real threats to the sustainability of organic farming. The adoption of farm machinery plays a vital role in overcoming these threats to ensure a sustainable and more profitable organic farming model. Farm machinery can also increase farmland yield [...] Read more.
Urbanization and low productivity are real threats to the sustainability of organic farming. The adoption of farm machinery plays a vital role in overcoming these threats to ensure a sustainable and more profitable organic farming model. Farm machinery can also increase farmland yield and reduce the need for labor, although the requirement of significant capital investment often prevents small farmers from buying machinery. There is an increased need to comprehend all relevant elements associated with farming machinery procurement and service delivery. In this article, we provide insight into the impact of different variables of farmers on the adoption of agricultural equipment. A total of 301 organic farmers were surveyed in three districts of Punjab, Pakistan. It was found that the most common machinery concerned herein are tube-well/pumps, tractors, tillage machinery, and thrashers/harvesters. Results from a multinomial probit estimation showed that farm machinery ownership is positively correlated with capital assets, civil infrastructure, alternative sources of power, and credit facility. The findings indicated that policymakers and stakeholders should not concentrate merely on short term planning, such as improving agricultural machinery’s adoption rate. Still, they should also strive to upgrade physical infrastructure and facilities and provide credit services to create an enabling environment that can empower the citizen in adopting large scale use of agricultural machinery for long term sustainability of organic farming. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
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12 pages, 710 KiB  
Article
Cognitive Component of the Image of a Rural Tourism Destination as a Sustainable Development Potential
by Ksenija Leković, Slavica Tomić, Dražen Marić and Nikola V. Ćurčić
Sustainability 2020, 12(22), 9413; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12229413 - 12 Nov 2020
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3978
Abstract
Sustainable tourism should maintain a high level of tourist satisfaction, so identifying components of tourism destination image plays an important role in destination management and marketing. This study aims to explore issues related to the image of a rural tourism destination, with the [...] Read more.
Sustainable tourism should maintain a high level of tourist satisfaction, so identifying components of tourism destination image plays an important role in destination management and marketing. This study aims to explore issues related to the image of a rural tourism destination, with the focus on the cognitive component. It also aims to analyze three dimensions of the cognitive component: functional, mixed, and psychological. Furthermore, this study gives the answer to the question of which dimension of the cognitive component makes the most significant impact on the general image of a rural tourism destination. The sample comprised 562 respondents. Data analysis included exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and structural equation modeling (SEM). The results indicate the existence of three dimensions of the cognitive component, and it can be concluded that the psychological dimension of the cognitive component has the most significant impact on the general image of a rural tourism destination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
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12 pages, 284 KiB  
Communication
Sea Buckthorn and Grape Extract Might Be Helpful and Sustainable Phyto-Resources as Associated Hypolipidemic Agents—Preliminary Study
by Erieg A. Mohamed, Camelia Tulcan, Ersilia Alexa, Doru Morar, Eugenia Dumitrescu, Florin Muselin, Isidora Radulov, Nikola Puvača and Romeo T. Cristina
Sustainability 2020, 12(21), 9297; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12219297 - 09 Nov 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2280
Abstract
Phytotherapy can enhance the beneficial health outcomes in the prevention of obesity and is able to improve the function of the metabolic organs, like the liver and kidneys. Since sea buckthorn (SBT) and grape extracts are known as abundant sources of polyphenol, we [...] Read more.
Phytotherapy can enhance the beneficial health outcomes in the prevention of obesity and is able to improve the function of the metabolic organs, like the liver and kidneys. Since sea buckthorn (SBT) and grape extracts are known as abundant sources of polyphenol, we assumed that the extracts of these two plants might have a hypolipidemic effect and an improved metabolic function in obese rats treated with atorvastatin. One hundred and twelve white Wistar rats were divided equally into seven groups (G.I–VII) and orally treated as follows: G.I, atorvastatin 20 mg × kg·bw−1; G.II, atorvastatin 20 mg × kg·bw−1 + SBT 100 mg × kg·bw−1; G.III, atorvastatin 20 mg × kg·bw−1 + grape extract 100 mg × kg·bw−1; G.IV, grape extract 100 mg × kg·bw−1; G.V, SBT 100 mg × kg·bw−1; G.VI, high-fat diet (HFD); group VII was considered the control group. After two and six months of administration, the rats were sacrificed, and blood samples were taken for biochemical analyses. The statistical results (analysis of variance (ANOVA)) showed that a combination of SBT and grape extracts with atorvastatin significantly reduced (p ˂ 0.001) the lipid parameters. After six months, the liver and kidneys improved their functioning, showing a statistically significant change (p ˂ 0.001) in the grape and sea buckthorn groups compared to the other groups. In addition, grape extract and SBT combined with atorvastatin proved to be potent hypolipidemic agents, so associations with phytodietary supplements can be considered as a valuable means of combating hypolipidemia and decreasing risk factors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
16 pages, 297 KiB  
Article
Marketing Mix Instruments as Factors of Improvement of Students’ Satisfaction in Higher Education Institutions in Republic of Serbia and Spain
by Sandra Brkanlić, Javier Sánchez-García, Edgar Breso Esteve, Ivana Brkić, Maja Ćirić, Jovana Tatarski, Jovana Gardašević and Marko Petrović
Sustainability 2020, 12(18), 7802; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12187802 - 21 Sep 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4023
Abstract
This paper explores the impact of marketing mix instruments on the students’ satisfaction in faculties in the Republic of Serbia and Spain, with the aim of determining how significant the effects of each marketing mix tool and their combinations are in relation to [...] Read more.
This paper explores the impact of marketing mix instruments on the students’ satisfaction in faculties in the Republic of Serbia and Spain, with the aim of determining how significant the effects of each marketing mix tool and their combinations are in relation to satisfaction of students in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The detailed literature review is provided in the theoretical part, which contributes to a better understanding of terms like marketing in higher education, marketing mix instruments in higher education and students’ satisfaction. Data were collected from 896 respondents, who are all students at the faculties in Serbia and Spain, and were obtained using the questionnaire purposefully composed for this research. The methods used to highlight any gaps in this marketing mix practice and the relative customer–student satisfaction in HEIs are statistical analyses (descriptive analysis, correlation analysis, multiple regression analysis and t-independent samples tests), leading to the general conclusions regarding the following: by improving marketing mix instruments (service, distribution, human factor, physical evidence, service process) we can, and by improving (price, promotion) we cannot, improve students’ satisfaction in higher education institutions. The general conclusions clearly highlight what needs to be improved in practice in higher education institutions to improve students’ satisfaction, especially students’ loyalty, students’ choices, students’ satisfaction with the quality of the marketing mix instruments at the faculty, students’ satisfaction with expectation which they had upon enrolment and student satisfaction with the public image of the faculty, which is the main goal of these institutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
14 pages, 260 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Rearing for Kid Meat Production in Southern Italy Marginal Areas: A Comparison among Three Genotypes
by Maria Antonietta Colonna, Pasqua Rotondi, Maria Selvaggi, Anna Caputi Jambrenghi, Marco Ragni and Simona Tarricone
Sustainability 2020, 12(17), 6922; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12176922 - 26 Aug 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 1784
Abstract
Sustainable goat breeding plays an important role in the economy of marginal areas. The present study aimed to compare performances and meat quality traits in kids of a native Apulian genotype (Garganica) in comparison with two Mediterranean breeds (Maltese and Derivata di Siria). [...] Read more.
Sustainable goat breeding plays an important role in the economy of marginal areas. The present study aimed to compare performances and meat quality traits in kids of a native Apulian genotype (Garganica) in comparison with two Mediterranean breeds (Maltese and Derivata di Siria). Kids suckled dam milk until they were 21 (±2) days old, hence three groups of 12 male kids per each genotype were made. The kids received a pelleted feed ad libitum in addition to dam milk and were slaughtered at 60 days of age. The Maltese kids showed the lowest net cold-dressing percentage, with statistical differences compared to Garganica and Derivata di Siria. Meat obtained from Garganica kids showed a rosy color due to a significantly lower a* index and were also more tender since a lower WBS was recorded in comparison with the other two genotypes. As for the nutritional value of meat, the best n-6/n-3 ratio was found for the Derivata di Siria breed. In conclusion, Garganica kid meat showed the lowest content of SFA and atherogenic index, with potential beneficial effects for human health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
13 pages, 283 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Water Buffalo Milk and Traditional Milk Products in a Sustainable Production System
by Zsolt Becskei, Mila Savić, Dragan Ćirković, Mladen Rašeta, Nikola Puvača, Marija Pajić, Sonja Đorđević and Snežana Paskaš
Sustainability 2020, 12(16), 6616; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12166616 - 15 Aug 2020
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4786
Abstract
Water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) conservation in Serbia is under an in situ program, but additional efforts are needed to ensure the development of this animal’s genetic resources biodiversity. This research aims to describe challenges and possible strategies for sustainable water buffalo [...] Read more.
Water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) conservation in Serbia is under an in situ program, but additional efforts are needed to ensure the development of this animal’s genetic resources biodiversity. This research aims to describe challenges and possible strategies for sustainable water buffalo milk production. In this study, the physicochemical characteristics of buffalo milk and buffalo dairy products (cheese, butter, and kajmak) were determined. Furthermore, amino and fatty acids composition and the related health lipid indices (atherogenic and thrombogenic) were assessed. The findings support the fact that buffalo milk is a reliable source of high-quality nutrients (dry matter: 16.10%, fat: 6.02%, protein: 4.61%). Leucine, lysine, and valine content were found to be high in buffalo milk and cheese. A substantial quantity of non-essential glutamic and aspartic amino acids was observed in milk, as well as glutamic acid and tyrosine in cheese. It was established that milk protein of buffalo cheese had a favorable proportion of essential and non-essential amino acids (61.76%/38.24%). The results revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in fatty acid profiles among the three dairy products for saturated short-chain, n-3, and n-6 fatty acids. Conversely, no significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed in monounsaturated fatty acids content. Kajmak showed the most favorable anti-atherogenic and anti-thrombogenic properties due to lower saturated and higher polyunsaturated fatty acid content. These results confirmed that buffalo milk could be successfully used in producing high-quality traditional dairy products with added value and beneficial characteristics from the aspect of a healthy diet. Furthermore, it could actively contribute to the promotion of sustainable production of buffaloes and strengthen the agricultural production of rural areas and their heritage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
16 pages, 3719 KiB  
Article
Composition and Efficacy of a Natural Phytotherapeutic Blend against Nosemosis in Honey Bees
by Romeo Teodor Cristina, Zorana Kovačević, Marko Cincović, Eugenia Dumitrescu, Florin Muselin, Kalman Imre, Dumitru Militaru, Narcisa Mederle, Isidora Radulov, Nicoleta Hădărugă and Nikola Puvača
Sustainability 2020, 12(14), 5868; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12145868 - 21 Jul 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2693
Abstract
Honey bees are essential to sustaining ecosystems, contributing to the stability of biodiversity through pollination. Today, it is known that the failure of pollination leads irremediably to the loss of plant cultures and, as a consequence, inducing food security issues. Bees can be [...] Read more.
Honey bees are essential to sustaining ecosystems, contributing to the stability of biodiversity through pollination. Today, it is known that the failure of pollination leads irremediably to the loss of plant cultures and, as a consequence, inducing food security issues. Bees can be affected by various factors, one of these being Nosema spp. which are protozoans specifically affecting adult honey bees and a threat to bee populations around the world. The composition of the phytotherapeutic product (Protofil®) for treating nosemosis was analyzed from a biochemical point of view. The most concentrated soluble parts in the phytotherapeutic association were the flavonoids, most frequently rutin, but quercetin was also detected. Additionally, the main volatile compounds identified were eucalyptol (1.8-cineol) and chavicol-methyl-ether. To evaluate the samples’ similarity–dissimilarity, the PCA multivariate statistical analysis, of the gas-chromatographic data (centered relative percentages of the volatile compounds), was applied. Statistical analysis revealed a significant similarity of Protofil® with the Achillea millefolium (Yarrow) samples and more limited with Thymus vulgaris (Thyme) and Ocimum basilicum (Basil), and, respectively, a meaningful dissimilarity with Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion). The results have shown a high and beneficial active compounds concentration in the analyzed herbs. High similarity with investigated product recommending the Protofil®, as the treatment compatible with producing organic honey. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
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17 pages, 568 KiB  
Article
Investment in Research and Development and New Technological Adoption for the Sustainable Beekeeping Sector
by Jelena Vapa-Tankosić, Vera Miler-Jerković, Dejan Jeremić, Slobodan Stanojević and Gordana Radović
Sustainability 2020, 12(14), 5825; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12145825 - 20 Jul 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2860
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to understand how members of beekeeping associations, with long-standing sustainable traditions and products with registered geographical origins, perceive the investments in research and development (R&D) and new technological adoptions. By means of a binary logistic regression, the [...] Read more.
The purpose of this paper is to understand how members of beekeeping associations, with long-standing sustainable traditions and products with registered geographical origins, perceive the investments in research and development (R&D) and new technological adoptions. By means of a binary logistic regression, the socio-demographic factors of the members of beekeeping associations predicting the investments in R&D and new technological adoptions were analyzed. Our findings point out that higher level of education and professional beekeeping experience predicts the willingness of investing in research and development. The higher level of education positively influences the willingness to hire professional consultants or bodies for the research and development of beekeeping practices. Serbian female beekeepers, beekeepers aged more than 41 years and professionally engaged beekeepers are more likely to admit that they need support of scientific and research institutions in the further development of beekeeping practices. A higher education has been shown to significantly predict the value added hive products due to new technology adoption. There is also a positive influence of the education level on new technology adoption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
14 pages, 863 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Plant-Production-Obtained Biomass in Function of Sustainable Energy
by Siniša Škrbić, Aleksandar Ašonja, Radivoj Prodanović, Vladica Ristić, Goran Stevanović, Miroslav Vulić, Zoran Janković, Adriana Radosavac and Saša Igić
Sustainability 2020, 12(13), 5486; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12135486 - 07 Jul 2020
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2793
Abstract
This research analyzed the degree of utilization of the agricultural biomass for energy purposes (combustion), in order to indicate the reasons that limit its use. The biomass potential was studied by means of the methodology of the biomass potential, whereas the factors suggesting [...] Read more.
This research analyzed the degree of utilization of the agricultural biomass for energy purposes (combustion), in order to indicate the reasons that limit its use. The biomass potential was studied by means of the methodology of the biomass potential, whereas the factors suggesting a low degree of biomass utilization were identified by means of factor analysis. The research results reveal that there is an enormous potential of the unused agricultural biomass. This dissertation research significantly contributes to the establishment of a genuine mathematical model based on multiple linear regression. The solution obtained by this analysis, in both a mathematical and a scientific manner, conveys the primary reasons for an insufficient utilization of the biomass for energy purposes. Moreover, the paper suggests the measures to be applied for a more substantial use of this renewable source of energy and presents the expected benefits to be gained. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
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22 pages, 352 KiB  
Article
Analysis of the Quality of the Employee–Bank Relationship in Urban and Rural Areas
by Snežana Lekić, Jelena Vapa-Tankosić, Slavica Mandić, Jasmina Rajaković-Mijailović, Nemanja Lekić and Jelena Mijailović
Sustainability 2020, 12(13), 5448; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12135448 - 06 Jul 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3404
Abstract
Banking sector performance is directly related to the economic performance of the country. This research is an effort to establish the parameters of job satisfaction among bank employees and to ascertain whether there were differences in job satisfaction between employees in urban and [...] Read more.
Banking sector performance is directly related to the economic performance of the country. This research is an effort to establish the parameters of job satisfaction among bank employees and to ascertain whether there were differences in job satisfaction between employees in urban and rural branches. A randomly selected sample was made of bank employees in the Republic of Serbia. To date, the relative job satisfaction of bank employees in urban and rural areas has not been investigated, and for this reason, it is important to analyze the different facets of job satisfaction such as salaries, cooperation with closest associates, promotion, remuneration policy, cooperation and relationship with superiors, and the nature of the job. The bank employees’ satisfaction with their salaries has a major influence on total job satisfaction. Perceptions of teamwork effectiveness and its relationship to overall job satisfaction were analyzed. Team quality has the greatest influence on the bank employees’ job satisfaction. These insights can offer guidance for future action on building the quality of the employee–organization relationship. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
23 pages, 417 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Consumers’ Willingness to Pay for Organic and Local Honey in Serbia
by Jelena Vapa-Tankosić, Svetlana Ignjatijević, Jelena Kiurski, Jovana Milenković and Irena Milojević
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4686; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12114686 - 08 Jun 2020
Cited by 57 | Viewed by 5467
Abstract
In times of increased concern for human health and care for the environment, it is important to investigate the consumer behavior models in order to better manage the product supply. From the perspective of our research, it is important to learn about consumer [...] Read more.
In times of increased concern for human health and care for the environment, it is important to investigate the consumer behavior models in order to better manage the product supply. From the perspective of our research, it is important to learn about consumer attitudes, of a specific product, such as honey, so as to potentially strengthen the economic position of honey producers. The purpose of this article was to explore the consumers’ perceptions of organic and local honey in the Republic of Serbia and identify factors that contribute to predicting consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for organic and local honey. The ordinal regression was used to determine which factors influence the WTP for organic and local honey, and the findings show that the consumers were WTP more for organic honey than for local honey. Socio-economic characteristics of respondents and honey attributes affect consumers’ WTP. The higher monthly household income positively influences the WTP for organic honey, while on the other hand, the higher level of education has a positive influence on the WTP for local honey. The WTP for organic honey positively affected by the perceived importance of honey attributes, such as food safety and support for the local community. The frequency of the purchase of the local honey, the recommendations for the local honey purchase and the perceived importance of attributes, such as the care for the environment and nutritional properties, have a positive influence on the consumers’ WTP for local honey. From this, we can conclude that our understanding of all the factors that influence a consumer’s decision to allocate budget expenses for honey can help all stakeholders in creating an adequate pricing and promotional strategy for honey products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
11 pages, 1177 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Using Natural or Biotic Dietary Supplements in Poultry Nutrition on the Effectiveness of Meat Production
by Nikola Puvača, Ivana Brkić, Miralem Jahić, Svetlana Roljević Nikolić, Gordana Radović, Dragan Ivanišević, Milorad Đokić, Dragana Bošković, Dragan Ilić, Sandra Brkanlić and Radivoj Prodanović
Sustainability 2020, 12(11), 4373; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12114373 - 26 May 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4386
Abstract
The goal of the research was to investigate the effect of dietary natural or biotic additives such as garlic, black pepper, and chili pepper powder in poultry nutrition on sustainable and economic efficiency of this type of production. A total of eight dietary [...] Read more.
The goal of the research was to investigate the effect of dietary natural or biotic additives such as garlic, black pepper, and chili pepper powder in poultry nutrition on sustainable and economic efficiency of this type of production. A total of eight dietary treatments with 1200 broiler chickens of hybrid line Hubbard were formed, with four replicates. During the experimental period, chickens were fed with three period mixtures diets of different average costs: Starter compound mixture two weeks (0.38 €/kg in all treatments), grower compound mixture next three weeks (0.36, 0.38, 0.40, 0.41, 0.46, 0.39, 0.42, and 0.39 €/kg, respectively), and finisher compound mixture for the final week (0.34, 0.36, 0.38, 0.39, 0.44, 0.37, 0.40, and 0.37 €/kg, respectively). The experiment lasted a total of 42 days. Upon finishing the experiment, results have shown statistically significant (p < 0.05) differences regarding the European broiler index (EBI) as one of the indicators of economic efficacy. The EBI was lowest in the control treatment (220.4) and significantly higher in experimental treatments (298.6), respectively. In cost, a calculation included the cost of feed and used natural or biotic supplements in chicken nutrition. The findings of the study of economic efficiency revealed that the cost per treatment rises depends on the natural additive used. Economic efficiency analysis showed that the most economical natural additive with the lowest cost is garlic (0.68 €/kg), while the most uneconomical is treatment with black pepper with the highest cost of body weight gain (0.82 €/kg). This higher cost of the gained meat is minimal as a consequence of a much healthier and more nutritious food meant for human use, which often promotes sustainable aspects, compared to conventional and industrialized poultry production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
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8 pages, 232 KiB  
Article
Use of Tea Tree Essential Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) in Laying Hen’s Nutrition on Performance and Egg Fatty Acid Profile as a Promising Sustainable Organic Agricultural Tool
by Nikola Puvača, Erinda Lika, Sonila Cocoli, Tana Shtylla Kika, Vojislava Bursić, Gorica Vuković, Mirela Tomaš Simin, Aleksandra Petrović and Magdalena Cara
Sustainability 2020, 12(8), 3420; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12083420 - 22 Apr 2020
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4213
Abstract
The level of production in a variety of organic production systems is often lower than in other traditional production systems. In poultry production, there is also a direct negative effect of the small scale regarding sustainable organic poultry production. Regardless of differences between [...] Read more.
The level of production in a variety of organic production systems is often lower than in other traditional production systems. In poultry production, there is also a direct negative effect of the small scale regarding sustainable organic poultry production. Regardless of differences between organic and conventional production systems, this experiment aimed to investigate the usage of tea tree Melaleuca alternifolia (Maiden and Betche) Cheel essential oils as a natural alternative to antibiotics in hen nutrition on productive parameters, table egg quality and eggs fatty acid profile as a promising sustainable organic agricultural tool. A total of 360 Lohmann Brown hens, aged 54 weeks, divided into three different treatment diets, were supplemented with 0 (T1), 40 (T2) and 80 mg/kg (T3) of M. alternifolia essential oil, respectively. Experimental treatments were replicated four times within 30 birds each. The experiment lasted for a total of 56 days (55 to 62 weeks of hens age). A 56-day experimental had two timetable periods of 28 days each: period 1 (55 to 58 weeks of hen age) and period 2 (59 to 62 weeks of hen age). For compound feed supplemented with M. alternifolia essential oil, daily egg production and the efficiency of nutrient utilization (FCR) was improved significantly (p < 0.05) until the end of week 58, with a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the thickness of eggshell, as well as egg production (p < 0.05). However, egg mass, feed consumption, FCR and albumen height, Haugh unit, and eggshell strength did not show any significant (p > 0.05) differences influenced by essential oil feed supplementation. Lower concentrations of saturated fatty acid (SFA) and monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and higher concentrations of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), were recorded with M. alternifolia essential oil supplementation, but without significant (p > 0.05) differences. At the end of the experiment, the obtained results showed that the addition of M. alternifolia essential oil to hen nutrition had a positive effect on production parameters and eggs fatty acid profile, with increased eggshell thickness (p < 0.05). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
15 pages, 1364 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Production and Sales of Organic Products in Ukrainian Agricultural Enterprises
by Roman Ostapenko, Yuliia Herasymenko, Vitalii Nitsenko, Svitlana Koliadenko, Tomas Balezentis and Dalia Streimikiene
Sustainability 2020, 12(8), 3416; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12083416 - 22 Apr 2020
Cited by 62 | Viewed by 5013
Abstract
As organic farming gains more popularity across the world, it is important to discuss the underlying trends of its development in Ukraine, who is an important agricultural producer. Organic farming may have lower environmental pressures—therefore, we seek to identify the major trends in [...] Read more.
As organic farming gains more popularity across the world, it is important to discuss the underlying trends of its development in Ukraine, who is an important agricultural producer. Organic farming may have lower environmental pressures—therefore, we seek to identify the major trends in the production and sales of the organic agricultural products in Ukraine. In this study, data on the production structure, costs, and selling prices from Ukrainian enterprises are analyzed. Conventional and organic enterprises are contrasted in order to identify the possibilities for the development of organic agriculture in Ukraine. Our results suggest that enterprises that use organic farming in Ukraine tend to produce higher output per hectare, as opposed to those engaged in conventional farming. However, labor profitability remains low in labor-intensive organic farming, especially in larger companies, and organic products remain a low percentage of Ukraine’s agricultural exports. This calls for further study into the development of organic production and consumption in the domestic market, as well as the implementation of appropriate certification practices in order to ensure the growth of organic exports. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
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17 pages, 249 KiB  
Article
The Taxation of Agriculture in the Republic of Serbia as a Factor of Development of Organic Agriculture
by Goran Milošević, Mirko Kulić, Zvezdan Đurić and Olivera Đurić
Sustainability 2020, 12(8), 3261; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12083261 - 17 Apr 2020
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2897
Abstract
Agricultural activity is very important for every country that strives to create a stimulating, stable, abundant, sustainable and equal business environment for all market participants. By striving for sustainable economic development and growth, as well as preservation of the ecosystem, organic agricultural production [...] Read more.
Agricultural activity is very important for every country that strives to create a stimulating, stable, abundant, sustainable and equal business environment for all market participants. By striving for sustainable economic development and growth, as well as preservation of the ecosystem, organic agricultural production aims to produce high-quality food. Within the socio-economic space, the role of the state as a regulator of production and market relations is indispensable. The state often uses fiscal policy as an instrument for the regulation of relations in the sphere of production and trade. The level of the tax burden is of vital importance for achieving a sustainable level of agricultural development. From the aspect of the Serbian economy, the taxation of agriculture in the future period must be based on a system of tax incentives for organic production. In the long run, this can increase the volume of organic production and the use of healthy food in human nutrition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
9 pages, 237 KiB  
Article
Effect of Dietary Supplementation with Moringa oleifera Leaves and/or Seeds Powder on Production, Egg Characteristics, Hatchability and Blood Chemistry of Laying Japanese Quails
by Elwy A. Ashour, Mohamed S. El-Kholy, Mahmoud Alagawany, Mohamed E. Abd El-Hack, Laila A. Mohamed, Ayman E. Taha, Ahmed I. El Sheikh, Vito Laudadio and Vincenzo Tufarelli
Sustainability 2020, 12(6), 2463; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12062463 - 20 Mar 2020
Cited by 42 | Viewed by 5527
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of dietary Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) leaves and/or seed powder on laying Japanese quail performance in terms of egg production, egg quality, blood serum characteristics, and reproduction. In total, 168 Japanese quails (120 hens and [...] Read more.
The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of dietary Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) leaves and/or seed powder on laying Japanese quail performance in terms of egg production, egg quality, blood serum characteristics, and reproduction. In total, 168 Japanese quails (120 hens and 48 males) at eight weeks of age in laying period were randomly distributed to four treatment groups, with six replicates per group and seven birds (five hens and two males) per replicate. The first group (G1) served as a control group, while G2, G3 and G4 groups were supplemented with M. oleifera leaves (ML) and M. oleifera seeds (MS) and their combination ((1 g/kg ML; 1 g/kg MS; and 1 ML g/kg + 1 MS g/kg (MSL), respectively). From the results, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio, egg weight, fertility and hatchability from fertile eggs, egg and yolk index, and Haugh unit were not affected by dietary treatments. However, egg production, egg mass, eggshell thickness, and hatchability were significantly increased and blood aspartate transaminase (AST) and urea decreased in the MS treatment. Both triglycerides and total cholesterol were reduced (p < 0.05) in all treatments with ML, MS, and MSL, with no significant differences in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), albumin, total protein, globulin, and A/G ratio among dietary treatment. Our results clearly indicated that the inclusion of M. oleifera seeds in Japanese quail diet significantly increased egg production and improved hatchability, along with some egg quality parameters, and also lowered some blood biochemical components. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)

Review

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25 pages, 1963 KiB  
Review
Green and Sustainable Public Procurement—An Instrument for Nudging Consumer Behavior. A Case Study on Romanian Green Public Agriculture across Different Sectors of Activity
by Rocsana Bucea-Manea-Țoniș, Oliva Maria Dourado Martins, Dragan Ilic, Mădălina Belous, Radu Bucea-Manea-Țoniș, Cezar Braicu and Violeta-Elena Simion
Sustainability 2021, 13(1), 12; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13010012 - 22 Dec 2020
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 7176
Abstract
Green Public Procurement (GPP) became an efficient instrument to achieve the objectives of environmental policy expressed by the European Commission in its Communications. At the same time, it must be addressed by the public authorities as a complex process, in which all purchased [...] Read more.
Green Public Procurement (GPP) became an efficient instrument to achieve the objectives of environmental policy expressed by the European Commission in its Communications. At the same time, it must be addressed by the public authorities as a complex process, in which all purchased goods and services must integrate perfectly into an entire puzzle-like system of legislation, the construction field, innovation, healthcare, food, and education. Scientific references published in the Web of Science (WoS) mainly between 2017 and 2020 were investigated, and they analyze the implications of green public procurement in various fields, as presented by scientific communities. This article brings as a novelty in this context the identification of some barriers in the adoption of these processes, so that they can be overcome. Based on good practices and international standards and trends, the article shows how aspects related to the implementation of green procurement in society can be taken into account. In the second stage, we added a case study on Romanian green agriculture and discussions regarding inter-correlation between different fields and GPP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Organic Agriculture for Developing Agribusiness Sector)
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