Socioecological Insights on the Sustainability of the Sweet Cherry Production Chain Within the Frame of a Lebanese Small Farming System

The value chain of sweet cherry in Lebanon is affected by several constraints with a negative influence on the local economy and socioecology. The main aim was to analyze relevant phases of the value chain, possibly suggesting solutions toward a Quality Management System. We especially focused on agricultural practices and socioeconomic characteristics of different farming systems. Stable isotope compositions (δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N) were analyzed on leaf and soil samples from different farms, in order to get eco-physiological insights into water use efficiency and nitrogen plant dynamics. Agronomic and socioeconomic data were acquired by administering surveys to a selected pool of farmers. Soils rich in organic matters are fertile and support efficient resources use and plant productivity. Some Lebanese areas showed higher socioeconomic sustainability. This was associated with higher socioecological resilience, especially in terms of reduced farming costs, sustainable use of environmental resources, and increased local capacity building.