Commitment of Spanish citizens with sustainability in food consumption: differences between Spanish regions according to their productive specialisation

This research analyses the level of commitment towards sustainability of Spanish consumers, and their perceptions and preferences towards more sustainable food, production systems and consumption practices. Based on the analysis of a survey of 324 consumers in the regions of Extremadura and Murcia, it analyses citizens' perception of the sustainability of their consumption and of different production systems, paying special attention to their opinions towards more sustainable vegetable and meat production practices, the most characteristic systems in the regions studied. The results show that consumers are generally very knowledgeable and aware of the impact of their food consumption on the environment. Although this perception is not reflected in the purchase of sustainable food for a significant segment of the population, it does translate into their efforts to participate in recycling, waste reduction or changes in their health-related consumption habits. Bivariate and cluster analyses have identified the existence of an important segment of citizens with high levels of environmental sensitivity, in which sustainable consumption practices and a preference for the purchase of sustainable food are identified, with a high level of importance attached to environmental impact when purchasing. In addition, they are largely willing to pay more for them, reflecting a growing concern and sensitivity of Spanish consumers to the impact of their food purchasing actions.