A Citizen Science and Photovoice Approach to Food Asset Mapping and Food System Planning

Abstract

Food asset mapping conducted by planners and policymakers usually consists of an online map identifying the locations of food-related sites in cities. However, food asset mapping may be limited in its consideration for ecological and cultural assets critical for community food security. Furthermore, what are considered “assets” may not reflect the everyday lived experiences of marginalized communities. This study applied a “citizen science” photovoice food asset mapping involving diverse participants in the City of Vancouver. In applying a citizen science photovoice approach, this study surfaced “hidden” contexts, food assets, and stories to integrate diverse community perspectives in food system planning.