Socioecological insights on the sustainability of the sweet cherry production chain within the frame of a Lebanese small farming system

The value chain of sweet cherry in Lebanon is affected by several constraints with a negative influence on local economy and socioecology. Main aim was to analyse relevant phases of the value chain, possibly suggesting solutions towards a Quality Management System. We especially focused on agricultural practices and socioeconomic characteristics of different farming systems. Stable isotope compositions (?13C and ?15N) were analysed on leaf and soil samples from different farms, in order to get ecophysiological insights on water-use efficiency and nitrogen plant dynamics. Agronomic and socioeconomic data were acquired by subministrating surveys to selected pools of farmers. Soils rich in organic matters are fertile and support efficient resources use and plant productivity. Some Lebanese areas showed a higher socioeconomic sus-tainability. This was associated with a higher socioecological resilience, especially in terms of reduced farming costs, sustainable use of environmental resources and increased local capacity building.