Exploring the Transition to Circular Mussel Farming in Italy: Farmers’ Perceptions and Scenario-Based Cost Implications of Recycled and Bioplastic Nets

Abstract

Mussel aquaculture plays an important role in the economies and livelihoods of coastal communities, supporting income generation, employment, and the preservation of local production traditions. However, the sector relies heavily on plastic materials, particularly polypropylene (PP) nets, whose extensive use raises environmental concerns related to marine pollution. While interest in biodegradable and recycled alternatives is growing, their adoption remains limited by technical, economic, organizational, and market barriers. This exploratory study examines the perceptions of a nonrandom sample of 22 mussel farmers operating in Italy regarding the use of alternative materials for farming nets, identifying perceived drivers and obstacles to their adoption. Using a contingent valuation approach, the study describes farmers’ stated willingness to pay (WTP) for recycled polypropylene (RPP) and biodegradable and compostable plastic (BP) nets. Among respondents who provided valid WTP responses, the median WTP was €4.5/kg in both the preinformation and postinformation elicitation conditions for RPP nets (n = 14) and BP nets (n = 15); the corresponding mean values ranged from €4.11 to €4.17/kg. The results suggest that concerns about quality, high costs, and limited consumer acceptance are relevant perceived barriers within the surveyed sample. A simplified parametric scenario model was then used to compare farmers’ perceptions with indicative cost implications under specific market and operational assumptions. The simulations suggest that, under selected assumptions, mixed-material strategies combining conventional and alternative polymers may generate costs close to those of conventional plastic nets within the scenario considered. The findings provide exploratory and sample-specific evidence on the perceived and economic conditions that may shape the adoption of alternative net materials among the surveyed mussel farmers in Italy.