Sustainability transitions in Icelandic agri-food production: stakeholder perceptions of limiting and enabling factors

This study investigates the complexities of transitioning towards sustainable agri-food production in Iceland, emphasising the interplay between agricultural practices, land use planning, and sustainability frameworks. Through qualitative interviews with stakeholders including farmers, policymakers, scientists and specialists, and value chain representatives, challenges and opportunities for sustainability transitions were identified. Despite the recognition of sustainability as a critical goal, the implementation of policies remains ambiguous and inadequately defined, even influenced by entrenched interests. The findings reveal that the transition is constrained by weak governance, limited monitoring and enforcement, political sensitivity around sheep reductions and rangeland use, economic pressures, dependence on imported feed and fossil fuels, and subsidy schemes that reinforce conventional production structures. Competition for high-quality agricultural land and strong private property rights further complicate planning for sustainability. At the same time, stakeholders identified several enabling factors, including collaboration across sectors, technological innovation, improved data and sustainability indicators, land restoration, carbon sequestration, and increased domestic feed production. The study concludes that sustainable transition in Icelandic agri-food production requires clearer policy integration, stronger and more participatory land use planning, and subsidy reforms developed in collaboration with farmers to better support rural development, ecological resilience, and long-term food security.