Paper short abstract:

This paper explores how Australian civic food networks adapted to COVID-19, facing multiple resource challenges. Strengthening producer-consumer relations proves challenging for lasting sustainability. Results prompt enquires into network scalability and sustainability pre-and-post crises.

Paper long abstract:

Responding to challenges posed by COVID-19, this paper examines the adaptive strategies employed by civic food networks (CFNs) in Australia. More specifically, it explores how CFNs responded to the pandemic and the mechanisms through which they operate to bring systematic change (pre-/post-COVID-19). Central to this exploration is the roles these networks play in shaping consumer behaviour toward supporting ethical and sustainable consumption practices. Previous studies have emphasised CFNs’ dual-contribution in enhancing consumer knowledge and broader food system transformation. Assuming their potential in mobilising communities towards embracing the values of alternative and local food systems, CFNs are considered to have the potential in facilitating transformations in producer-consumer relations in ways individual consumers cannot.

This work disagrees by bringing further nuance to the role of CFNs in the context of crisis. Analysing survey and in-depth interview data through the lens of ethical consumption and scalability, findings from this work highlight that whilst being able to adapt and respond to the pandemic effectively, CFNs encountered various barriers in essential resources, exacerbating pre-existing challenges. Despite the potential for CFNs to foster more grounded producer-consumer relations and knowledge-sharing, consumer sovereignty remains pivotal in shaping food consumption practices, making it exceedingly challenging to implement enduring food consumption changes that can support transitions towards a more sustainable and just food system. Findings raise important questions about the ability for food networks to sustainably scale up operations, strengthen capacity-building, and improve network relations across a given geographical landscape: during and after times of ecological, political, and social crisis.