The aim of this work was to perform a comprehensive assessment of sustainability of sheep meat production in Aragon. For this purpose, a sample of 37 farms differentiated into 3 production systems based on their agronomic characteristics and the availability of pastoral resources (Rainfed, Mixed Rainfed/Irrigated, and Mountain) was analyzed. Economic, social and environmental indicators, as well as the information obtained through a participatory process (focus groups) with different actors involved in this production: farmers, technicians and representatives of the rural population (mayors and councilors) were used. The results showed that the studied farms are environmentally sustainable, but they are at the limit of their economic and social sustainability. The Mixed Rainfed/Irrigation system presents the greatest economic sustainability and the Mountain system the greatest environmental sustainability. These results contribute to improve knowledge of challenges faced by sheep meat systems, to predict its evolution in future, and can contribute to the design of policies that ensure the continuity of the most sustainable ones.

Pardos L, Lahoz B, Bernués A, Alabart JL, Fantova E (2022). Evaluación integral de la sostenibilidad de la producción ovina de carne en Aragón. ITEA‑Información Técnica Económica Agraria 118(4): 594-612. https://doi.org/10.12706/itea.2022.003