Abstract:
Unsustainable aspects of the global food system (production, transport, consumption, and waste) contribute to ill-health for people and planet. Anthropogenic climate conditions are linked to inequitable health impacts between and within countries. A “Great Food Transformation” is needed though the dominant discourses speak to the role of powerful stakeholders such as governments and industries; not centring support for community-oriented groups is a missed opportunity. A community-oriented early childhood centre in Rotorua, Aotearoa (New Zealand), has been developing an increasingly sustainable programme including plant-based food, garden-to-table and nature pedagogy, and is close to zero waste. A qualitative case study is conducted with the community of school leaders, staff, and whānau to explore the process, impact, experiences, and challenges faced in their efforts. Key concepts from critical pedagogy and cultural safety underpinned the development of semi-structured interviews and document analysis. Data collected was coded and developed into themes through a reflexive thematic analysis. Three main themes are discussed, including the importance of leadership for leading and sustaining change, the experience of impact is linked to relationships and social support, and meeting challenges when working to be sustainable benefits from support both social and structural.
