Understanding the Sustainability Tripod in the Context of Local Markets

Abstract

The crisis of the agri-food model opens space for discussion around food seeking more sustainable ways of production and consumption. The local markets can help to walk on this way, making the environment more sustainable. Thus, the article aims to analyze aspects related to environmental, social and economic sustainability with food product exhibitors in local markets in Canada and Brazil. Qualitative research was carried out at local markets, in the Concordia Farmers Market (CFM), in the city of Montreal - Canada and in the Mercado de Produção da Agricultura Familiar (FEPRAF), in the city of Júlio de Castilhos - Brazil. Data were collected through interviews and participant observation, and analyzed using content analysis. The results identified aspects related to environmental sustainability (organic and artisanal foods without chemicals and waste reduction), social (local markets generate an opportunity to strengthen relationships between producers and customers, bonds and exchange of information) and economic (appreciation of local products by developing the region's economy).