Agricultural University of Athens
School of Applied Economics and Social Sciences
Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development
Use of Blockchain Technology for Traceability of Aromatic and Medicinal Plants
A thesis submitted to the
AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY OF ATHENS
In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Integrated Master’s Degree of
AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT
By
DESPOINA SYKOVARI
Student ID: 418082
Committee Members
Karetsos Sotirios, Assistant Professor (Supervisor)
Costopoulou Constantina, Professor
Demestichas Konstantinos, Assistant Professor
Athens, February 2025
ABSTRACT
This thesis focuses on investigating the application of Blockchain technology in the aromatic and medicinal plants sector. It examines the potential of this technology to resolve key issues in the sector and enhance its competitiveness. Initially, the multiple uses of aromatic and medicinal plants, the contribution of their production to the national economy and the challenges faced by producers, such as quality control and traceability issues, are presented. Emphasis is placed on the specificities of the aromatic plants supply chain, which necessitates the development of reliable systems for quality assurance. At the same time, the problems related to the quality control of both raw plant material and processed plant products are investigated. The characteristics of Blockchain technology, its advantages and disadvantages and the solutions it can offer with its adoption in the food supply chain are also presented. More specifically, the integration of data into the Blockchain is examined at all stages of the value chain, from cultivation and harvesting, to drying, processing, standardization and distribution. At the same time, the possibilities of applying Blockchain to improve product traceability and safety are explored.
A survey was then conducted based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). For this purpose, a questionnaire was developed and distributed to a large number of farmers and cooperatives throughout Greece. From this effort, it was possible to collect 23 questionnaires. The questionnaires were analyzed based on specific assumptions. The results reveal that Greek businesses recognize the importance of transparency and safety in the management of their products. The main priorities include ensuring authenticity, strengthening consumer trust and compliance with international standards and regulations. In conclusion, Blockchain technology can play a decisive role in upgrading the aromatic and medicinal plants sector. It can contribute to improving traceability, quality and safety, while offering businesses the opportunity to create added value for their products. Furthermore, the adoption of this technology enhances sustainability, transparency and competitiveness at all stages of the supply chain.
Keywords: Blockchain, Aromatic and Medicinal Plants, Quality Issues, Traceability, Supply Chain
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