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Contribution of Farmers’ Markets to More Socially Sustainable Food Systems: A Pilot Study of a Farmers’ Market in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), Australia

This pilot study explored farmer motivations for participating in a farmers’ market in ACT to shed light on whether it contributes to a more socially sustainable food system. An adaptation of ethnography including interviews, observations, and document analyses found three main themes—authentic, fresh, high quality food defines this farmers' market; desire for re-connections; and strengthening community—which were evaluated against a social sustainability framework. Findings showed that the Capital Region Farmers Market is a socially just and equitable food system where social capital can thrive. The study provides preliminary evidence that farmers’ markets can play a role in improving sustainability from a social perspective.