Sustainability Analysis of Olive Production in Hatay Province, Turkey

Sustainability of Olive Production in Hatay, Turkey

Abstract

Hatay Province, located in the Southern Mediterranean region of Turkey, contributes approximately 7% of the country’s olive production. This study assessed the sustainability of olive enterprises in the province by interviewing 100 producers across 5 districts. A total of 33 variables (10 economic, 14 social, 9 environmental) were identified and used to evaluate sustainability. Results showed that 76% of the enterprises were considered “fragile”, 14% were considered “good”, and 10% were considered “poor”, with the highest scores obtained for social sustainability (58%), and the lowest obtained for environmental sustainability (7%). Statistically significant relationships were also found between sustainability and the following variables: being a member of a producer organization (χ² = 5,144; p < 0.05), planning to increase production (χ² = 10,747; p < 0.05), a willingness for their descendant to become a farmer (χ² = 6,349; p < 0.05), and a decrease in fertilizer use (χ² = 4,070; p < 0.05). Moreover, only 63% of producers reported having successors willing to continue agricultural activities, with production costs and product prices identified as key factors in their decision to remain in agricultural production. These findings highlight the need for stronger support for olive enterprises to ensure sustainable production. Given the vulnerability of most enterprises in Hatay Province and future significant challenges that may be encountered, it is critical to enhance the level of effectiveness of cooperative organizations, along with policies aimed at improving economic and environmental conditions in the region.