An input flow analysis for improved environmental sustainability and management of cherry orchards: A case study in the Apulia region

Italy is the fourth top world cherries producer after Turkey, United States of America, Iran (Islam Republic of). The Apulia region is the largest sweet cherries (Prunus avium L.) producer at the national level and in particular one of the most produced cultivar is “Ferrovia”. This work is based upon a life-cycle approach, and is aimed at collecting and analysing the material and energy input-flows associated with a cherry orchard in the Apulia region. The study is intended both to serve as the starting base for performing the next phases of life-cycle inventory and environmental impact assessment, and to contribute in enhancing the current databases and scientific literature in this field. Furthermore, the study allowed the authors to highlight that the major inputs were due both to irrigation as large volumes of water used and diesel fuel consumption in particular to fertiliser and pesticide transportation and administration. The study can be considered as bases for further evaluation and reduction of the related environmental impacts.