L’économie sociale et solidaire et pratiques décroissantes : étude de deux initiatives communautaires en France et au Luxembourg

Translated title of the contribution: The social and solidarity economy and degrowth practices: a study of two community initiatives in France and Luxembourg

Gilles Evrard Essuman, Elena Emrick-Schmitz

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

In the quest for sustainable futures, the concept of degrowth offers logics that challenge the prevailing growth-oriented economic paradigm. This article delves into the role of two community-led initiatives in France & Luxembourg embodying and advancing the principles of degrowth: Le Biau Jardin in France and OUNI in Luxembourg.

We have identified these enterprises as critical case studies in exploring the potential of enterprises operationalizing degrowth through their alternative practices prioritizing environmental sustainability, social equity, and local resilience. Le Biau Jardin, a cooperative farming initiative, and OUNI, Luxembourg's first zero-packaging grocery store, illustrate how alternative economic models can contribute to degrowth by fostering practices of collective ownership, local production, and consumption that respect ecological limits and prioritize human and planetary well-being.

Drawing from our own personal involvement as well as ethnographic investigation comprising of participant observation and expert interviews spanning over several years, this paper analyzes how these enterprises navigate the complexities of existing within a capitalist system while embodying degrowth values through innovative organizational structures, financing as well as their operations and governance.

This investigation highlights the opportunities and challenges faced by community-led enterprises in advancing degrowth objectives, shedding light on the intricate relationship between enterprise and degrowth in the current economic context. By examining the strategies these enterprises employ to maintain their commitment to social and environmental objectives, the article contributes to the ongoing debate on the feasibility of enterprises in a degrowth economy and their role in a transitioning towards degrowth. Ultimately, Le Biau Jardin and OUNI serve as exemplars of how localized, community – focused initiatives can pave the way for a sustainable economic paradigm that transcends the limits of traditional growth – centric approaches.
Translated title of the contributionThe social and solidarity economy and degrowth practices: a study of two community initiatives in France and Luxembourg
Original languageFrench
JournalMondes en décroissance
Volume3
Issue number3-2024
Publication statusPublished - 10 Oct 2024

Keywords

  • Degrowth
  • Social innovation
  • Social Capital
  • Socio-Territorial Capital
  • Community Economies
  • Community Initiatives
  • Social and Solidarity Economy

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