| Summary: | This study aims to conduct an exploratory and comparative analysis between Fruit and Vegetable Producer
Organizations (FVPOs) and fruit and vegetable producers that are not part of these organizations (Non-FVPOs)
regarding the prioritization, perception, and adoption of sustainable and circular practices. For this purpose, data
was collected from both groups through an online survey. Statistical techniques for the comparison of two independent groups (chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, and Mann-Whitney U test) were used to examine the
differences on a sample of 14 FVPOs and 22 Non-FVPOs from Spain. Although the results show more similarities
than differences between the two groups, they highlight that FVPOs are more likely to prioritize environmental
factors and implement both green manuring and biodegradable raffia as the main Agricultural Waste Biomass
(AWB) reduction and/or valorization practices. In addition, the findings point to the relevance of environmental
considerations and specifically to the Sustainable and Circular Production Models (SCPMs) as an alternative to
the traditional fruit and vegetable production system. Theoretically, the results mainly contradict resource and
first mover advantage arguments by revealing that more resourceful organizations do not necessarily possess
better environmental management. This study also provides innovative information and relevant contributions
for governments. It allows them to identify aspects that should be strengthened in relation to policies, regulatory
frameworks, and/or strategies that promote sustainable and circular production systems for both FVPOs and
Non-FVPOs. In addition, it contributes with implications, for organizations and farmers, how to improve actions
and opportunities to advance the transition to SCPMs.
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