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In front of escalating resource limitations in agriculture, this study emphasizes the critical need for efficient crop cultivation. Focusing particularly on tomatoes, a staple in global diets, the research aims to sustenably enhance productivity. Recognizing productivity as a key economic indicator, the study highlights the pivotal role of energyefficient practices in addressing challenges posed by climate change and depleting natural resources. By optimizing energy use in agricultural processes, this research not only improves economic efficiency but also positions the sector for resilience and innovation in a resource-constrained environment. Through an in-depth analysis of data from Eurostat covering the 2014-2022 period, we trace the trends in greenhouse tomato cultivation across Europe, evaluating changes in cultivation areas and productivity. This research offers insights into how different European countries have adapted their agricultural practices in response to environmental and economic pressures and in the same time, it underscores the need for continued innovation and adaptation in agricultural practices to meet the demands of a growing global population under increasingly constrained environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of rising concerns about sustainability and environmental impact, this article focuses on analyzing two remarkable agricultural systems in the South-West Oltenia Development Region: the conventional and the ecological, and emphasizes one of the foundational crops for the region, wheat. The research was derived from a comprehensive questionnaire applied on 18 farms in the South-West Oltenia region: half of them employing ecological practices and the other half using conventional methods. Our primary focus was to determine the most economically viable agricultural system for the area. Through this analysis, the article not only illustrates the evolution of this crop's production from 2020 to 2022, but also provides insights into production costs and their valorization in the market. Moreover, it underscores the importance and advantages of each agricultural system, highlighting potential long-term benefits from both economic and sustainable perspectives. To provide a solid and well-grounded analysis, statistical methods were employed, combined with data obtained fromthe questionnaire administered directly at the farm level in the region. This methodology offers a clear perspective on the profitability and efficiency of the two agricultural systems in the specific context of South-West Oltenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the growing interest in sustainable agricultural practices, this study highlights a detailed bibliometric analysis regarding the intersection between sustainability and profitability in conventional and ecological farming. While the ecological farming model clearly emerges as a frontrunner in terms of sustainability, profitability assessments present challenges due to varying regional costs, lack of standardized metrics, and shortterm versus long-term value evaluations. Drawing from international sources and top-tier academic literature, the article reveals prevailing trends as well as under-researched areas in the field of agricultural research. The results indicate a clear acknowledgment of the benefits of ecological farming from a sustainability standpoint. However, the paper discusses the challenges related to assessing the profitability of these practices and identifying the most efficient strategies for supporting and expanding alternative farming systems. Thus, it underscores the imperative of a multidisciplinary perspective for deep understanding and informed action in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this article is to analyze the evolution of the areas cultivated in the conventional system, comparing the data at European and at the national level. With a solid foundation in analyzing data obtained from various agricultural organizations, this study aims to elucidate current trends and provide an in-depth understanding of how conventional agriculture is changing. The analysis regards the year 2020 for which Eurostat provided data which were used for identifying similarities and differences between different EU member states exploring the potential reasons for these variations. By analyzing these trends, the article seeks to identify the impact of conventional agriculture on the environment and human health, as well as how agricultural practices are changing to become more sustainable and less harmful. The conclusion is that agricultural structure of the countries of the European Union is extremely diverse, reflecting the traditions, economy, geographical conditions, agricultural policy and many other aspects specific to each member state. It is obviously needed to continue and intensify efforts for increasing farm size, modernizing technical endowment and improving efficiency in the agricultural sector in the EU, especially in countries with a high share of small farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary aim of this article is to analyze the progression of organic farming at the European level, with emphasis on trends and changes in the cultivated area under this system. The article seeks to underscore the significance and benefits associated with organic farming, particularly in response to the detrimental effects of conventional agriculture on the environment and human health, and to provide relevant information for the promotion and adoption of sustainable practices in agriculture. In light of extensive research, agricultural experts have acknowledged the adverse environmental and health consequences of conventional agriculture over the course of several decades. Consequently, they have embraced organic farming, which draws inspiration from traditional farming methods spanning thousands of years. By employing statistical analysis and utilizing data from reputable sources, the study highlights the increasing prevalence of organic farming across Europe, specifically exploring the perspective of Romania. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fiscal policy represents a problem of security and solidarity at the level of each individual state, but also at the community or world level, because ensuring tax revenues can contribute to ensuring economic, social and environmental stability, but at the same time it also contributes to economic development both current, as well as future generations. This can be achieved by improving some important sectors of activity, such as education or health. Each individual state establishes a certain fiscal policy, adapted to its own needs, in which the ratio between direct taxation and indirect taxation, the manner of their application can ensure sufficient fiscal revenues to cover both public expenses, but also allow the achievement of investments. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the two taxation systems, both at the level of Romania and at the level of other EU countries, with the aim of making comparisons and finding solutions regarding the way to improve the fiscal policy in Romania. The research methodology assumed both the analysis of the specialized literature regarding the characteristics of fiscal policies and their role in ensuring economic development, as well as the consultation of internal and international databases from which fiscal information was collected regarding direct taxes and indirect taxes. The data collected and systematized were subjected to an analysis with the help of some statistical indicators. The interpretation of the results allowed us to formulate conclusions that highlighted the fact that although Romania registers a GDP/inhabitant that places it very close to the average of EU countries (72%), in terms of the contribution of tax revenues in the formation of GDP, there is an imbalance, as a result of the weight of 26.3%. This imbalance is due to several factors, among which we were able to identify: low level of collection of fees and taxes to the state budget, granting exemptions from paying taxes or applying preferential fiscal regimes, permanent changes to the Fiscal Code, etc., aspect that, in addition to excessive financing of consumption, contributed to the appearance of the budget deficit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The agri-food sector stands as a fundamental pillar of the European Union's economic framework, essential for sustaining the region's population and playing a significant role in the overall economic health and stability of the EU. This study offers a comprehensive analysis of labor productivity trends in the EU's agri-food sector over the past decade, focusing on a comparative assessment between Romania and top-performing EU economies. Using data from Eurostat and national databases, we explore the dynamics of labor productivity, considering factors such as turnover, number of enterprises, and employment levels in the agri-food industry. The research reveals significant disparities in productivity growth, with countries like the Netherlands, Denmark, and Belgium showing high productivity levels, while Romania, despite a notable improvement, remains below the EU average. The study underscores the importance of strategic investments and policy interventions in boosting productivity and competitiveness in the agri-food sector across Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study provides an in-depth analysis of employment trends within the European Union's meat processing industry over a ten-year period, from 2011 to 2020. It specifically focuses on companies across various employee size categories, emphasizing Romania's position within these dynamics. The research employs comprehensive data from Eurostat, assessing changes in the labour force across different company sizes and countries. The study uncovers notable variances in labour force evolution, reflecting the distinct impacts of economic conditions, industry-specific factors, and regulatory frameworks in each nation. Germany exhibited a significant rise in its labour force in larger companies, while Spain showed the highest growth rate, more than doubling its labour force in this sector. Contrarily, Poland experienced a minor decrease, illustrating a different trend. Italy and Romania both marked considerable growths, with Romania demonstrating notable progress, particularly in larger companies. These findings highlight the multifaceted nature of labour dynamics in the EU meat processing industry, influenced by a complex interplay of market demand, technological advancements, and economic policies. The study underscores the sector's essential role in the EU's economy and the need for adaptable labour force strategies in response to changing industry landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food loss ans waste, referred next as FLW, has a great extent on the economic and behavioural patterns of consumption. In this paper, we aim to present statistical univariate and multivariate analyses based on a statistical study run during a period of several months in the Romanian territory. In this matter, the main purpose of the analysis developed in this paper is to determine several patterns of FLW phenomenon. This is made based on a methodology which comprises two main sections: the univariate analysis, consisting in statistical determinations of indicators and direct observation, and the multivariate analysis, related to the clustering analysis. The clustering analysis is based on the usage of hierarchical method, which has as final result the determination of clusters describing patterns of consumption related to food loss and waste. After the analysis was run, five main clusters related to food waste behaviour patterns were determined, with slight differences between food consumption habits, but with various combinations between the parameters taken into consideration. The obtained clusters offer important information for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to customize interventions and programs to target specific demographic groups or segments of the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tourism, as a form of spending free time, has undergone numerous transformations in the last period of time, this is due both to globalization that contributed to the internationalization of tourist experiences, but also to recent events (such as the Covid-19 pandemic, economic crises, etc), but also changing the perception of tourism consumers regarding how they can spend their free time. Traditional or well-known destinations have started to face overcrowding, which is starting to be felt negatively by both residents and visitors who are starting to change their consumption habits regarding the locations they choose as tourist destinations. On the other hand, the challenges of the modern world regarding the effects of global warming, the sharp increase in the population, the depletion of planetary resources, but also the much greater concerns of the current generations regarding these aspects, make the choices we make regarding the choice leisure destinations to change and become more responsible. In this context, creative tourism as an increasingly sought-after option, among a growing category of consumers. In this paper, we set out to analyze the perception that tourism consumers in Romania have regarding this form of tourism. The research assumed, on the one hand, a bibliographic analysis regarding the term creative tourism and how this notion has evolved from the moment of its definition as a form of tourism in the 2000s until now, as well as from a study of case based on the application of a questionnaire to measure the perception of consumers regarding this form of tourism, but especially on the awareness of its existence. The questionnaire had 16 questions answered by 124 respondents. The data were centralized and interpreted with the help of the Excel program, the results highlighting the fact that although some of the respondents practice creative tourism, it is quite little known as a concept. The answers given by the study participants highlighted the fact that they are interested in practicing activities integrated into creative tourism, considering that there are many advantages both regarding the experiences they create, with the interactions they establish with the locals or with the other participants. At the same time, the impact that creative tourism practices have at the local level (both economic and social) is recognized. We consider that these results are useful not only at the micro level, but also at the macro level, under the conditions that the development strategies of the field of hospitality will be thought in such a way as to promote, integrate and develop this form of contemporary tourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addressing the critical interplay between market dynamics and food security within Romania's swine meat market, amidst evolving economic and social challenges, the research aimed to elucidate the roles of elasticity dynamics and trade balance performance in ensuring a high food security level. Utilizing data from 2011 to 2022, the analysis employed key elasticity metrics--price elasticity of demand (PED), income elasticity of demand (IED), factor elasticity of demand (FED), and income elasticity of the swine meat trade balance's deficit (IET)--to dissect the complex interactions configuring demand, supply, and international trade dependencies. The methodology was grounded on quantitative analyses, contrasting year-over-year and base-year elasticities to capture both immediate and longitudinal market responses to socio-economic stimuli. This detailed approach uncovered pertinent findings: despite general price inelasticity in swine meat demand, significant fluctuations in response to income changes and production factors were observed, with 2015 marking a year of heightened sensitivity due to external factors like the African swine fever outbreak. This study underscores the imperative of leveraging elasticity analyses to inform the development of agricultural policies aimed at enhancing domestic production, managing trade deficits, and ultimately reinforcing Romania's food security socio-economic infrastructure against the backdrop of global market volatilities and domestic supply constraints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation of the causes and consequences of food loss and waste has been extensively explored in the literature, given its significant impact on both the local community and the national economy. This paper suggests various comprehensive approaches concerning food loss and waste (FLW) in Romania, considering the broader European context of the FLW phenomenon based on a bibliographic study, a statistical approach of the causes dynamics analysis and a system-based approach leading to an integrated view of the phenomenon. In order to accomplish this purpose, we have used statistical material originated from national and European statistical institutions and we have processed it using direct observation and interpolation. Our objective was to identify various factors contributing to food loss and waste throughout the agrifood chain and analyse their impact on the FLW phenomenon. The findings revealed that the primary factors contributing to food waste are associated with economic aspects. This study serves as a foundational step for subsequent research endeavours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop management in the Romanian agriculture faces many risks and challenges that directly influence the technical and economic performance of the farms and implicitly the sustainability of the agricultural sector. These challenges range from climate change to resource issues, from plant health problems to market and regulatory issues. It is therefore essential to understand these issues in detail to develop effective crop management strategies and support Romanian agriculture in the face of a complex and changing environment. Through methods of statistical analyses and bibliographic documentation, we will identify and analyze this risks and challenges in detail in order to obtain a more comprehensive picture of the agricultural landscape in Romania in order to develop some necessary measures to reduce and, as far as possible, eliminate these risks. Data were collected from public institutions, from the official National Institute of Statistics, NIS, website Tempo-Online. The aim of crop management in Romania, as in any other country, is to ensure efficient, sustainable and profitable agricultural production. By adopting these recommendations and proactively addressing risks and challenges, agriculture in Romania can become more resilient and sustainable, further ensuring the supply of high-quality food and contributing to the country's economic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food waste is one of the consumer economic behaviors that have a development with a great difficulty in explanation. As an economic phenomenon, it has several effects with a huge impact related to resources and optimization within the economic systems. In this paper, we propose to develop a research study which aims to identify a series of causes to food waste and to determine the quantitative impact of these causes on the phenomenon. The study is made based on the statistical data observed in a certain period and the previous research studies presented in the literature. The final part of the research is based on the determination of the influence of the identified causes on this specific consumer behavior using specific statistical methods, such as correlation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food waste is one of the most unusual behaviours related to economic systems located on the agrifood chain. In this matter, the study of the food waste and the mechanisms that lead to its development are complex and rooted within several components of the human behaviour and economic system dynamic. In this paper, we propose the development of a model which presents the dynamics of the phenomenon based on several cause-effect relationships between aspects of human behaviour and economic aspects. The model is built using a Systems Dynamic (SD) approach, based on the identification of connections between identified causes and effects and the determination of the ontologic and mathematical nature of the connections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In front of climate change and the threat of food shortages, organic farming is an answer to both challenges. On the one hand, organic farming protects and improves environmental conditions, and on the other hand, it can provide food for the entire planet. Of course, the organic farming system is difficult to apply, requiring both financial resources and consumer awareness. The current work aims to carry out an analysis of how organic agriculture has evolved in the counties of Constanța and Tulcea, as well as identifying some particularities at the level of the organic farm, from demand to obtaining and delivering production. The study deepened the situation of organic farming using both published data and information collected with the help of a questionnaire. From the study, it emerged that the two studied counties together own 24.1% of the area certified in the ecological agriculture system of our country, respectively Constanța 6.5% (17,651 ha) and Tulcea 17.6% (47,757 ha). The number of operators in the ecological system, in 2020, was 280 in Constanța County and 343 in Tulcea County respectively, holding a share of 2.5% and 3.1% respectively of the total per country. The analysis of ways to capitalize on organic production consisted of the assessment of capitalization, the existence of a capitalization plan and the possession of storage spaces, the commercialization of production in the country or for export. Thus, from the answers of the farmers it emerged that out of the 70 respondents, 18 (25.6 %) consider the exploitation of production to be an easy and medium easy activity, and 28 (40 %) consider it a heavy activity and 24 (34 %) as a very hard activity, of which 85% have higher education; out of the farms analyzed, 35 farms have production storage facilities, of which 32 have higher education; the destination of the production is 41.4% only in the country, 11.4% outside the country and 37.1% capitalize the production both in the country and outside the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this work is to examine the publications in the field of Metaverse with the method of bibliometric analysis. Starting from the Metaverse keyword, the WOS and Scopus databases were searched, identifying a total of 788 publications in WOS and 1,385 publications in Scopus that met the study criteria. The VOSviewer software and the Scopus database were used for the analysis. We used several types of analysis: co-author analysis to identify the descriptive characteristics of the publications. It was found that the largest number was that of scientific works. The number of publications started to increase from 2007, but exploded in 2022. The countries that had the most publications were China, USA, United Kingdom, South Korea and Germany. The University of Zilina, Slovakia, Dimitrie Cantemir University Bucharest, Romania, University of Bucharest, The Institute of Technology and Business in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, University of Craiova, etc. had the most publications among organizations. The analysis of the citations led to the identification of the authors and publications that were the most cited, resulting in the following: Sang-Ming, P.; Young-Gab, K. (2022); Sang-Ming, P.; Young-Gab, K. (2022); Haihan, D; Jiaye, L.; Sizheng, F. (2021), etc. Although the metaverse is not a new concept, it has become a new extension of virtual worlds, starting to be applied more and more in more and more fields (commerce, medicine, tourism, agriculture, etc.). The conclusions of the study will be able to constitute a road map regarding future research that will be more and more complex with the complexity of the Metaverse concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Romania is an important agricultural producer in the Black Sea basin, which benefits from pedoclimatic conditions favourable for the cultivation of oil plants. In this context, the paper aims to identify the position occupied by Romania in the global trade of rapeseed and sunflower seeds, for the period 2018-2022. To this end, quantitative and value imports and exports were analysed for these product categories, based on the statistical data available on specialized websites such as ITC. The results of the study show that Romania was the most important exporter worldwide, both in terms of value and quantity, of sunflower seeds in the period 2018-2021. In 2022, it lost the 1st place to Ukraine. Rapeseed ranked 5th in terms of exported quantity and 6th in terms of export values, among the world's top exporters. Also, Romania registered an increasing trend in the imports of sunflower and rapeseed for the studied period, especially in 2022. Imports of sunflower seeds placed Romania on the 4th place, and those of rapeseed on the 11th place in terms of quantity and respectively 12th for value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional farming systems have been an alternative given that global population growth has been accompanied by an increase in food needs, and areas for production have not been able to keep pace with growth. But the practice of conventional agriculture is the one that, along with other ways of aggressive exploitation of natural resources, economic development, has contributed to environmental degradation and resource depletion. Under these conditions, alternative solutions were sought both to reduce the pressure on the environment, but also to obtain healthier foods that would thus contribute to improving human health. Organic farming, sustainable agriculture, uses principles that have been applied for a long time, but with the advent of the concept of circular economy, as a way to reduce pollution and improve the health of the planet, have been sought solutions for its application in agriculture conventional. In this paper we aim to analyze the current situation of the use of pesticides in agriculture, as an important source of pollution, as well as the possibilities of implementing the principles of circularity in their use, given their high degree of toxicity. The working methodology involved the collection of existing data in national databases, as well as in international ones on the quantities of pesticides sold, the quantities of packaging resulting from their use, but also the possibilities of collection and recycling, as a way of applying recircularity. Based on the processed, analyzed and interpreted data, conclusions were formulated that could be the basis for establishing measures regarding the implementation of efficient circularity systems in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]