Exploring the Meaning of Smallholder Lifestyle in Gabriola, BC: Land Food People Triangle

In the current epoch of the Anthropocene, ecological destruction driven by human activities, including climate change, ecosystem degradation, and the food crisis, poses significant challenges. Unsustainable food practices are major contributors to this ecological crisis. The smallholder lifestyle, central to regenerative alternative food systems, offers effective pathways to explore sustainable living. This thesis employs Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to investigate the smallholder lifestyle. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight smallholders living in Gabriola, BC, from which interpretative accounts were developed. Through the lens of lifestyle movements theory, this thesis aims to uncover the meanings of participants’ smallholder lifestyle experiences and identify their social significance. Based on empirical findings, the “land-food-people triangle” is proposed to conceptualize the essence of the three key agencies within the smallholder lifestyle and their interwoven relationships. Moreover, situated within the proposed conceptual framework, recommendations are provided as decision-supporting tools for local and regional policymakers and regulators. Additionally, this research provides insights into the power of individualized food practices, lifestyle decisions, and civic food societies, in driving sustainable social transformations.

Author dc:creator

• Wu, Siyuan

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Vannini, Phillip

• School of environment and sustainability

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Identifier URI

https://doi.org/10.25316/ir-19747

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:null:10613/28123