Carbon Footprint Labelling and Consumer Food Choices: Opportunities and Barriers for Climate-Smart Diets in Bulgaria

Abstract

Climate change raises pressing questions regarding the environmental impact of food systems. Carbon footprinting could serve as a potential measure to guide climate-friendly food consumption in Bulgaria. This study explores the opportunities and challenges of using carbon footprinting to guide consumer behaviour and promote sustainable consumption. The study, based on a detailed analysis of policy guidelines, international standards (GHG Protocol, ISO 14067, LCA), and national socio-economic conditions, assesses the capacity of the Bulgarian food sector to implement transparent climate reporting. The results show that while European policies such as the Green Deal and the Farm to Fork Strategy provide a helpful context, Bulgaria struggles with limited consumer knowledge, insufficient data infrastructure, and financial constraints for SMEs. Consumer interest in sustainability, especially among young people, is growing. However, behavioural inertia, price sensitivity, and lack of knowledge about eco-labels are hindering widespread adoption. The study concludes that carbon footprint labelling in Bulgaria has great potential to promote climate responsibility. However, this can only be achieved through coordinated political support, public awareness campaigns, technological integration, and culturally sensitive communication. Incorporating carbon footprint labelling into national sustainability policies can trigger a broader shift towards climate-friendly diets and help align public behaviour with long-term environmental goals.