Are Local Food Chains More Sustainable than Global Food Chains? Considerations for Assessment

摘要: This paper summarizes the main findings of GLAMUR project which starts with an apparently simple question: is “local” more sustainable than “global”? Sustainability assessment framed within a post-normal science perspective, advocating integration public deliberation and scientific research. The spans 39 local, intermediate global supply chain case studies across different commodities countries. Assessment criteria cover environmental, economic, social, health ethical sustainability dimensions. A closer view food system demonstrates highly dynamic local–global continuum where actors, while adapting to changing environment, establish multiple relations animate several configurations. evidence suggests caution when comparing “global” chains, especially using outcomes comparison in decision-making. Supply chains are analytical constructs that necessarily—and arbitrarily—are confined by boundaries, isolating set elements from interconnected whole. Even consolidated approaches, such as Life Cycle (LCA), assess only part attributes, interpretation may be controversial. Many attributes not yet measurable “hard” methodologies need complemented “soft” at least able identify critical issues trade-offs. Aware these limitations, our research shows local necessary caution, can help overcome priori positions so far have characterized debate between “localists” “globalists”. At firm level, could useful best practices, benchmarks, points, errors avoid. As status achieve, but never-ending process, basis “reflexive governance” chains.