Mary Beckie

Engaging communities in municipal sustainability planning: the use of communication strategies and social networks in Alberta

In this paper we examine and compare communication processes aimed at building social networks and increasing citizen engagement in two communities participating in a municipal sustainability planning (MSP) pilot programme in Alberta, Canada, initiated by the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association (AUMA). Data were gathered through qualitative semi-structured interviews and documentary review. In soliciting citizen engagement, each community utilised a variety of communication methods, based on available resources and on-going evaluation of community responses. In both cases, citizens developed a shared vision of a preferred future for their community, aided by a reconfiguration of their internal and external social networks. In addition to drawing upon and strengthening bonding relationships within the community, bridging relationships with external actors and agencies promoted knowledge mobilisation that aided in planning and transitioning towards sustainability. Both communities faced challenges as well, which the authors discuss in relation to the sustainability of MSP planning.

Community engagement and transformation: case studies in municipal sustainability planning from Alberta, Canada

In Canada, the use of a sustainability framework for municipal planning has recently been promoted and linked to federal government funding for infrastructure improvements. Within this framework, citizen involvement is identified as essential to creating a shared vision and plan for the development of more environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable communities. This article examines and compares how communication processes and input voiced by community and external stakeholders influenced the transformation of two municipalities involved in sustainability planning in the province of Alberta. A social ecology perspective is used to analyze data gathered from stakeholder interviews and documentary review. Developing a common language for sustainability through education and dialogue facilitated the planning process and community change. In addition to acquiring a stronger voice and identity within the region, these communities also began to see themselves as part of a larger sustainability network.

Social practices of knowledge mobilization for sustainable food production: nutrition gardening and fish farming in the kolli hills of India

Concerns about food security are growing around the world, precipitated by climate change, resource degradation, a growing population and increasing income disparity. In India, food insecurity is high in many rural farming communities, especially among isolated tribal populations. In this study we examine how knowledge about sustainable food production is acquired and mobilized among small-scale farmers belonging to the Malayalis Tribe, who reside in the Kolli Hills region of Tamil Nadu, India. We focus on nutrition gardening and fish farming, two production practices recently introduced to alleviate poverty and malnutrition in the region. Using qualitative participatory research methods, we explored ways in which farmers are accessing, using and sharing knowledge about these practices, and barriers to equitable access. We also asked farmers what information is still lacking about these practices and what mechanisms could be put in place to improve access. This research revealed that participants in both nutrition gardening and fish farming rely primarily on external experts (non-governmental agricultural research and extension) for formal training (e.g. workshops) and advice, despite a long history and traditional knowledge of gardening and river fishing. Agricultural knowledge is also mobilized within the region less formally between individuals and households through face-to-face contact or verbal communication via mobile phones. The use of additional communication technologies (e.g. computers) to enhance access and mobilization of knowledge was perceived to be most relevant and beneficial for young, educated people.

The “Locavore” Chef in Alberta: A Situated Social Practice Analysis

A sub-culture of “locavore” chefs is playing a critical but under-examined role in addressing concerns about the conventional, industrialized food system by re-localizing the sourcing, processing, and preparation of food. The values that underlie why certain chefs decide to work in this niche market, their strategies to overcome the situational challenges of sourcing locally produced food, and the ways they develop the knowledge and skills needed to prepare and incorporate these ingredients into appealing menus all point to the unique position that these chefs occupy in the local food movement. This paper presents insights from a study that utilized in-depth interviews to investigate the culinary practices of twenty-three local food-promoting chefs in Alberta, Canada. Using a social practice theory framework, these chefs’ culinary practices were examined based on what material conditions they encountered, how they employed particular skills and competencies and why they decided to become “locavores.” This study reveals that although issues of product accessibility, distribution, cost, and consistency of quality and volume are constraining factors, chefs’ ability to innovate and reskill, to foster supportive relationships with farmers and consumers, and their commitment to alternative values are keys to their success in niche “local” markets.