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A bibliometric analysis of sustainability transitions in agrifood systems

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Bibliographic Details
Title: A bibliometric analysis of sustainability transitions in agrifood systems
Authors: Abshana Jamal, Bakthavachalam Elango, M. K. Joseph
Source: Cogent Social Sciences, Vol 11, Iss 1 (2025)
Publisher Information: Taylor & Francis Group, 2025.
Publication Year: 2025
Collection: LCC:Social Sciences
Subject Terms: Sustainability transitions, agrifood systems, bibliometrix, multi-level perspective, sustainable agriculture, innovation, Social Sciences
Description: Sustainability transitions in agrifood systems are gaining increasing attention due to their potential to address the environmental, social and technological challenges posed by conventional agriculture. These transitions involve multifaceted shifts, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving soil health, conserving water, promoting agroecology and enhancing food system resilience. This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of 148 publications from the Scopus database (2004–2024) to examine how sustainability transitions in agrifood systems have evolved over time. Using Bibliometrix and VOSviewer, we identify key thematic clusters, leading authors and institutions, emerging research trends and theoretical frameworks, especially the widespread use of the multi-level perspective (MLP). The results reveal a growing scholarly interest, particularly after 2019, with Europe leading in research output. Motor themes include sustainable agriculture, food security, governance and innovation, while niche areas, such as collective action and grassroots innovations are gaining prominence. This review maps the intellectual structure of the field, highlights research gaps and offers insights to guide future studies and policy development aimed at fostering sustainable agrifood transitions.
Document Type: article
File Description: electronic resource
Language: English
ISSN: 2331-1886
Relation: https://doaj.org/toc/2331-1886
DOI: 10.1080/23311886.2025.2556226
Access URL: https://doaj.org/article/6e67b95c3a1c4a91bdf6989a3d0aa9d0
Accession Number: edsdoj.6e67b95c3a1c4a91bdf6989a3d0aa9d0
Database: Directory of Open Access Journals
Description
Abstract:Sustainability transitions in agrifood systems are gaining increasing attention due to their potential to address the environmental, social and technological challenges posed by conventional agriculture. These transitions involve multifaceted shifts, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving soil health, conserving water, promoting agroecology and enhancing food system resilience. This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of 148 publications from the Scopus database (2004–2024) to examine how sustainability transitions in agrifood systems have evolved over time. Using Bibliometrix and VOSviewer, we identify key thematic clusters, leading authors and institutions, emerging research trends and theoretical frameworks, especially the widespread use of the multi-level perspective (MLP). The results reveal a growing scholarly interest, particularly after 2019, with Europe leading in research output. Motor themes include sustainable agriculture, food security, governance and innovation, while niche areas, such as collective action and grassroots innovations are gaining prominence. This review maps the intellectual structure of the field, highlights research gaps and offers insights to guide future studies and policy development aimed at fostering sustainable agrifood transitions.
ISSN:23311886
DOI:10.1080/23311886.2025.2556226