Using multiregional environmentally extended input-output assessment to quantify the carbon footprint of peach production

The main objective of this investigation is to analyse the validity of multiregional input-output methodology to evaluate the environmental performance of peach production using a life cycle approach. The analysis is based on a detailed sectorial economic foreground inventory applicable to the region of Murcia (Southern Spain), following the principles of ISO 14040 and incorporating the methodological decisions of Environdec Product Category Rule for fruits and nuts. Total climate change emissions for 1 kg of peaches were calculated at 1.2 kg CO2 eq, 39.2 % of which correspond to economic activity in the sectors directly affected by the expenses and a further 60.8 % to indirect emissions from induced effects. Most of the total carbon footprint (63 %) is generated by the core stage, primarily crop production and refrigerated storage, both activities being characterized by their high economic intensity and environmental factors.