Community supported agriculture in urban settings: a way for better understanding and implementation of sustainability – a Norwegian experience

Abstract

Norway covers an abundant wilderness, only 3 % of the land are cultivated. Population is scarce many places of the country, but like trends elsewhere, there are a concentration towards more urban settings. Urban citizens take action for future sustainable development through producing some of their own food. Politics protect land resources for agriculture, but agricultural areas are still decreasing. The official goal of 15 % production and market shares of organic products in 2020 can stimulate urban farming. Literature states how people carries out top goals for sustainability in a humble practical approach. The eagerness to grow food is underlined by the growth of community supported agriculture (CSA) from a single one in 2006 to more than 50 in 2016. Market statistics illustrates that the majority of organic food in Norway is distributed in alternative channels like CSAs, Farmers market or directly from the farms. Compared to other Scandinavian countries the common market chains for organic food are less developed in Norway. Consumers motivation for participating in CSA is food security, environment and control of the food chain. CSA farmers are motivated by minimizing the economic risk and getting company in everyday life. CSAs are mostly located in urban surroundings and directed by a farmer or a gardener. Consumers in the cities also initiate CSAs. The visibility and learning by doing makes a comprehensive demonstration of sustainability.