ABSTRACT
This study analyzes how management and governance policies and practices affect the achievement of sustainable consumption and production (SCP) patterns at Earth Markets. The mixed-method research collected data through online surveys from 52 of these Markets in 14 countries and from a qualitative follow-up study of 11 of the 52. The analysis shows that paying to participate in Earth Markets is a significant antecedent of SCP. Other significant antecedents are collaboration with stakeholders in more mature markets and the number of the volunteers in newer markets. A community-based governance model enables broad stakeholder participation, which encourages community involvement and support. Inspired by the Slow Food philosophy, Earth Markets contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and to economic and social sustainability by supporting small farmers, building communities, fostering social justice and preserving cultural heritage. Their potential for generating other local events will be of importance to regional developers. This empirical study is novel in that it adopts a holistic approach to linking farmers' markets with SDGs.
