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Social Life Cycle Analysis of Intensive Greenhouse Farming: A Qualitative View of Tomato Production in Almeria (Spain)

Author

Listed:
  • Miriam Martín-Moreno

    (ICAI School of Engineering, Universidad Pontificia Comillas, 28015 Madrid, Spain)

  • Katia Hueso-Kortekaas

    (ICAI School of Engineering, Universidad Pontificia Comillas, 28015 Madrid, Spain)

  • Jose C. Romero

    (Institute for Research in Technology (IIT), ICAI School of Engineering, Universidad Pontificia Comillas, 28015 Madrid, Spain)

Abstract

This paper presents an exploratory qualitative Social Life Cycle Analysis (S-LCA) of intensive greenhouse tomato farming in Almeria, Spain, with a specific focus on the social impacts on migrant workers. By setting as a functional unit the production of 10 kg of greenhouse tomato, the study investigates the social dynamics and challenges faced by migrant workers within the industry. The research sheds light on the negative aspects of intensive greenhouse farming for migrants, i.e., labor conditions, health and safety risks, social inequality, and exploitation of migrant labor. Utilizing document analysis, this study contributes to the field of S-LCA by providing a nuanced understanding of the social dimensions surrounding tomato production and migrant workers’ experiences. It emphasizes the need for sustainable practices, improved labor conditions, and ethical considerations to ensure a socially responsible tomato farming industry. The findings have implications for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and consumers, providing insights for informed decision-making and the promotion of socially sustainable agricultural practices that prioritize the well-being and rights of migrant workers in the context of intensive greenhouse farming in Almeria.

Suggested Citation

  • Miriam Martín-Moreno & Katia Hueso-Kortekaas & Jose C. Romero, 2023. "Social Life Cycle Analysis of Intensive Greenhouse Farming: A Qualitative View of Tomato Production in Almeria (Spain)," World, MDPI, vol. 4(3), pages 1-13, September.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jworld:v:4:y:2023:i:3:p:39-636:d:1244675
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Manolis Manioudis & Giorgos Meramveliotakis, 2022. "Broad strokes towards a grand theory in the analysis of sustainable development: a return to the classical political economy," New Political Economy, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 27(5), pages 866-878, September.
    2. Ruqun Wu & Dan Yang & Jiquan Chen, 2014. "Social Life Cycle Assessment Revisited," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 6(7), pages 1-27, July.
    3. Katia Hueso-Kortekaas & José C. Romero & Raquel González-Felipe, 2021. "Energy-Environmental Impact Assessment of Greenhouse Grown Tomato: A Case Study in Almeria (Spain)," World, MDPI, vol. 2(3), pages 1-17, September.
    4. Yoan Molinero-Gerbeau & Ana López-Sala & Monica Șerban, 2021. "On the Social Sustainability of Industrial Agriculture Dependent on Migrant Workers. Romanian Workers in Spain’s Seasonal Agriculture," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(3), pages 1-17, January.
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