Energy and emissions: Comparing short and long fruit cold chains.

ABSTRACT: This paper evaluates GHG emissions and energy usage in "short" and "long" cold chains for oranges, table grapes, and apples transported from South Africa to a retail store in Scotland. Novel formulae assess energy usage and emissions based on cold chain duration. "Short" chains show carbon footprints between 0.87 and 1.28 kg CO₂e/kg of saleable fruit, contrasting starkly with extended cold chains. Extending storage durations increases emissions; a one-month extension results in 24-27 % emissions for oranges and grapes and 16 % for apples. Six months of CA storage of apples increases emissions by 96 % compared to "short" cold chains. Energy consumption follows a similar trend as emissions. This research informs policymakers and consumers, emphasising the need for sustainable and

SUBMITTER: du Plessis M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11193027 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature