An overview of environmental management in the Spanish food sector: a survey study. Issue 1 (8th January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ormazabal, Marta; Viles, Elisabeth; Santos, Javier; Jaca, Carmen
• Is Part Of: Management of environmental quality. Volume 29:Issue 1(2018)
• Page Start: 49
• Page End: 62
• Publication Date: 2018-01-08
• Subjects: Food industry -- Survey -- Environmental management -- Overview; Environmental health -- Periodicals; 616.98
• DOI: 10.1108/MEQ-10-2016-0072
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1477-7835

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: Environmental management (EM) is becoming increasingly important in all types of organizations. The food industry represents the top industrial sector of the Spanish economy; however, there is still little knowledge about how it is managed environmentally. The purpose of this paper is to present a descriptive analysis of the Spanish food sector. Design/methodology/approach: This study undertook a descriptive analysis based on probabilistic sampling surveys from food companies in Spain. The survey was sent out to 900 companies obtaining 128 answers. Findings: The results of this study show that companies with an EM standard tend to have a more developed system and a greater presence of EM tools and actions. Moreover, statistical differences were identified among the characteristics of companies and various factors that affect the evolution of their EM. Originality/value: There are no studies that reveal a clear picture of the status of EM in the Spanish food industry. This study presents a clear starting point that might help policy makers, consultants, researchers and other parties to set new improvement routes so companies do not get stuck in their progress toward environmental excellence.