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Comparing Voluntary Sustainability Initiatives and Product Carbon Footprinting in the Food Sector, with a Particular Focus on Environmental Impacts and Developing Countries

Two types of private voluntary standards used in the food sector are analysed here: sustainability initiatives that encourage best practice management on farms for environmental, social and economic gains; and product carbon footprints (PCFs) that estimate the climate impact of products across entire supply chains. Concern is sometimes voiced about potential negative impacts of both on exports from developing countries, but especially related to PCF initiatives which are outcome-based, involve complex calculations and may present particular burdens for small producers. It is argued here that both approaches have a role to play in the conservation of our environment, where both have advantages and disadvantages. The paper concludes with recommendations for policy makers and standard setters. 
 
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