Broadening ecological footprint and biocapacity research: A co-developed research agenda with Canadian stakeholders

Abstract

The Ecological Footprint and Biocapacity methodology and data set (EFB) are a rigorous and longstanding method for measuring sustainability through trade and consumption worldwide. It goes through regular methodological advancements and is used by countries and researchers worldwide. However, the uptake of the approach is lacking across Canadian cities and sustainability groups. This study assessed the understanding, and perceptions of EFB among sustainability stakeholders in Canada to identify barriers and opportunities for increased uptake. We conducted 23 interviews with stakeholders from non-governmental and governmental organizations across western, central, and eastern Canada. The data was analyzed through an affinity sort and revealed themes which resulted in a broader research agenda focusing on social science questions centered around EFB. The identified areas for future research include source data, complexity and scale, behaviour, and policy. The resulting research agenda informed by stakeholders aims to enhance and broaden the use of EFB. The research agenda brings EFB into new areas of inquiry relevant to diverse sectors while also fostering multidisciplinary approaches. Advancing EFB methodologies and applications will enable researchers to contribute more significantly to global sustainability efforts.