The conditions for structuring the wool industry in southern France: the key role of stakeholders’ perception of the co-product.
Assigned Session: FS 3.175: Adding value to wool, from globalization to the circular economy: which opportunities for mountain regions?
Abstract ID: 3.13099 | Not reviewed | Requested as: Talk | TBA | TBA
Arielle Vidal (1)
Marie-Christine, Heinninger (2); Hichem, Amichi (1)
(1) Université de Toulouse, Ecole d’Ingénieurs de Purpan, UMR 5193 CNRS LISST - Dynamiques Rurales, 75, voie du TOEC - BP 57611 31076 Toulouse
(2) Université de Toulouse, UT2J, UMR 5193 CNRS LISST - Dynamiques Rurales, 5 All. Antonio Machado, 31058 Toulouse
Abstract
In the face of the climate emergency and biodiversity decline, it is essential to transform production systems to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and petrochemical products such as plastic. In Southern France, the wool industry illustrates this industrial renewal towards a circular economy. However, beyond the potential of these bio-sourced sectors, their structuring and implementation in rural areas face various constraints. Therefore, examining their emergence process is essential to identify the critical factors that can drive their development. In this study, we specifically analyze the emergence process of a wool sector within the context of the AOP Roquefort industry, which is characterized by an abundance of sheep wool. We will specifically examine the complementarities or barriers that exist between the primary production, which is sheep milk, and the wool sector. For this end, we conducted an in-depth observation and a series of interviews between 2021 and 2024. Six interviews with key stakeholders (the mill director, representatives of sheep farmers, and regional policymakers) provided insight into the industry’s structure and operations. Additionally, 44 farmers were surveyed regarding the challenges of wool marketing, the associated costs, and the prospects for developing this sector. We identified two key mechanisms supporting the structuring of this industry. First, stakeholders—including project leaders, farmers, and policymakers—incorporate this initiative within the continuity of dairy farming, thereby reinforcing the sustainable image of Roquefort AOP. Second, the unique partnership between actors from diverse sectors (agriculture, craftsmanship, finance, commerce) facilitates cross-sector collaboration. The project is partially led by farmers through their association, which enhances political engagement and facilitates financial and technical support. However, the industry still faces challenges, particularly the uneven commitment of farmers, which often depends on their proximity to the wool mill and their networks. This disparity may hinder efforts to improve wool quality, as achieving higher standards requires additional work, such as the wool sorting. In conclusion, this initiative highlights the importance of cooperation between farmers and the industry to enhance the value of locally sourced wool. If this dynamic continues to grow, it could enhance the economic value of wool, and accelerate the agroecological transition.
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