This research analyzes the level of commitment
with
sustainability of
Spanish
consumers, and their
perception and preference
s
toward more sustainable food,
production systems, and consumption practices. Based on the analysis of a survey of
324 consumers in the
regions
of Extremadura and Region of Murcia, the perception
of citizens on the sustainability
of their consumption and different production systems
is analyzed, paying special attention to their opinion
s
towards
more sustainable
vegetable and meat production practices.
Findings
show that
almost
all consumers are
highly sensitive to the impact of th
eir consumption on the environment. Although this
perception does not translate into the purchase of sustainable foods for an important
segment of the population, it does translate into their efforts to participate in recycling,
waste reduction, or
in
chan
ges in their consumption habits related to health. The
bivariate and cluster analyses carried out have identified the existence of an important
segment of citizens with high levels of environmental sensitivity, which translates
into sustainable consumption
practices and a preference for the purchase of
Sustainable Food (SF), with high importance
granted when
purchasing
to
its impact
on the environment.
Keywords:
Sustainability,
F
ood,
C
onsumer segments,
Spain