Will the small be feeding us all? An analysis of alternative food networks in Austria

Abstract

Social innovation has gained growing relevance from policymakers, civil society, organisationsand the scientific community to address the pressing problems of today. Especially our currentfood systems are environmentally, economically and socially unsustainable and in desperateneed of change. Factors like growing consumer distrust and economic and political crises urgethe need to change global food chains. AFNs are considered a bottom-up response to thosedeficiencies. Scholars have stressed the need to investigate the practical implementation andimpacts of SI initiatives, especially in the agricultural sector.Moreover, the practical nature and the conceptual ambiguity of SI have stressed the need formore empirical research to derive valuable insights into how these initiatives can help transformthe agro-food system. The research question for this study is: “How can alternative foodnetworks produce social and environmental outcomes?The results show that AFNs are producing SI outcomes, especially in terms of returning totraditional practices, enhancing biodiversity and soil health. Due to the close relationship withtheir consumers, these initiatives also promote participation and knowledge-sharing. Communication and transparency are crucial factors for success, an AFNs could benefit from improving their online presence in order to share their values and mission. Moreover, the studyshows that knowledge structures and organisational capabilities need to be implemented.

Date of Award	11 May 2023
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Laure Leglise (Supervisor)