Concepts

Theoretical Frameworks The course introduced participants to different theoretical frameworks that underpin sustainable food planning. These frameworks may include concepts like food system resilience, agroecological urbanism, regional agroecological food systems, food justice and democracy and multi-level governance.

Approaches and Methods Various approaches and methods play a vital role in sustainable food planning. Participatory Action Research (PAR) and living labs are some of the participatory approaches that encourage active engagement with stakeholders and communities to co-create solutions. Participants have also explored different analysing methods to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and policies in food planning.

• Participatory action research involves active involvement of people affected by the research in shaping the research process and outcomes. It can be a simple collaboration with a specific community or a formalised approach with multiple stakeholders.
• Living labs are experimental spaces where stakeholders work together to develop and test innovative solutions in real-life conditions. They can range from informal partnerships to complex networks of organisations.

Both approaches prioritise collaboration and engagement, leading to more effective and relevant research and solutions.

Through the cultivation of critical subjectivity, PALAR emphasises the development of self-awareness and an appreciation of the unique agency, identity, emotions, beliefs, and desires of oneself and others. By actively involving all participants in the learning and research process through open dialogue and critical thinking, PALAR creates an inclusive space where diverse perspectives coexist and contribute to the co-creation of knowledge. This approach promotes a deeper understanding of complex issues and supports the development of context-specific solutions, enriching the overall learning experience for everyone involved.