Abstract
The purpose of this study is to know how the members of Cowichan Valley build a biophysical and cultural ecosystem that supports the sustainability of a biodiesel cooperative. The study uses an Ecosystem Approach and Transformative Research Methodology. Use of the territorial analysis of socio-ecological systems is based on organizational social networks. Findings include the desired transition to sustainable fuels, such as biodiesel, requires the reconfiguration of the local context where it is produced and consumed, recognizing local, provincial, federal and global relationships. In the case of study of a social enterprise, it is known how its survival and growth requires the continuous transformation of itself and its local context. This study adds a socio-technical perspective that identifies the main threats and opportunities of the context and the prosumer of biodiesel as a trigger for the local construction of a biophysical and cultural ecosystem that supports the sustainability of biodiesel production and distribution in this local context.
Presenters
Maria Odette Lobato CallerosProfessor, Division of Science, Art and Technology, Universidad Iberoamericana Ciudad de México, Distrito Federal, Mexico Brian Roberts
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Economic, Social, and Cultural Context
KEYWORDS
Sustainable Communities, Sustainable Biofuels, Sustainability Transitions, Ecosystem Approach
