Beyond scientific contribution: Assessment of the societal impact of research and innovation to build a sustainable agri-food sector. (15th June 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chams, Nour; Guesmi, Bouali; Gil, José María
• Is Part Of: Journal of environmental management. Volume 264(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-06-15
• Subjects: Research outcome -- Sustainability performance -- Societal impact -- Innovative agri-food sector; Environmental policy -- Periodicals; Environmental management -- Periodicals; Environment -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Periodicals; 363.705
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.110455
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4797

Abstract

Abstract: Due to the climate change and increased attention toward environmental management issues, the agri-food sector has been extensively relying on research, development, and innovation (RDi) to transform conventional agricultural production into a sustainable and eco-friendly industry. While the academic contribution of research has been relatively easily identified in the literature, the assessment of its societal impact remains underdeveloped. Accordingly, this study employs mixed-method evaluation approaches, mainly ASIRPA framework and Impact Oriented Monitoring (IOM) model to better understand and measure the multi-dimensional impacts of RDi in the agri-food sector in Spain. The objective of this analysis is to identify the impact of research on the society and the ecosystem. An in-depth case study analysis is conducted to examine the "best practices" program to promote sustainable techniques in the rice cultivation. Empirical findings suggest a standardized index to measure the economic, socio-territorial, health, political, capacity building, and environmental impacts, involving the stakeholder-network evaluation. The study highlights important implications for firm management decisions monitoring research uptake and policy design in the agri-food sector. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Case-study analysis examines sustainable performances in the rice cultivation. A mixed-method technique applied to evaluate the multi-dimensional impacts of RDi. Standardized index measures the societal impact reflecting stakeholder's assessment. Practical implication for decision making, policy design, and research monitoring.