Title: Analysis of competitiveness of a dairy property through reverse logistics: a case study

Authors: Ana Carolina Alves Gomes; Débora da Silva Lobo; Bárbara Françoise Cardoso; Pery Francisco Assis Shikida

Addresses: State University of Western Paraná - UNIOESTE, Toledo - PR, Brazil ' State University of Western Paraná - UNIOESTE, Toledo - PR, Brazil ' State University of Western Paraná - UNIOESTE, Toledo - PR, Brazil ' State University of Western Paraná - UNIOESTE, Toledo - PR, Brazil

Abstract: This paper aimed at evaluating the competitiveness of a dairy property located in the Western Paraná State that uses the reverse logistics of the animal waste produced by the activity. Therefore, we collected information related to the property and the activity by questionnaires and in loco observations seeking information regarding the drivers that affect the competitiveness of the property, such as: macroeconomic factors, technology, market structure, coordination, management of the firm and inputs. We analysed the drivers classifying them as positive or negative according to the methodology proposed by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO): 'Guidelines for Rapid Appraisals of Agrifood Chain Performance in Developing Countries'. It was concluded that the property is competitive when using the reverse logistics of waste produced, as it helps to minimise the negative externalities of dairy cattle production and generate cost and operational savings (electricity consumed and purchase of inputs).

Keywords: competitiveness; reverse logistics; animal waste; dairy production; biogas; Brazil; dairy cattle.

DOI: 10.1504/IJGEI.2014.067669

International Journal of Global Energy Issues, 2014 Vol.37 No.5/6, pp.253 - 266

Published online: 30 Apr 2015 *

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