Karin Kruup
Title: COMMONS-BASED PEER PRODUCTION IN BENEFIT OF GRASSROOTS INITIATIVES OF SUSTAINABILITY TRANSITIONS
Supervisor: Dr. Alexandros Pantazis, Prof. Dr. Vasileios Kostakis,
Opponent: Dr. Vasilis Niaros
Defense: 4 June 2021
Abstract: Socio-technical and socio-economic systems need to adapt to become more resilient and sustainable to combat environmental and socio-economic challenges. Commons-based peer production (CBPP) and grassroots initiatives of sustainability transitions can be the solution. A case study about Parks Slope Food Coop (PSFC), a member-owned and operated food store, was carried out to uncover elements of commons-based peer production in this organization. Based on the framework of the grammar of peer production, Park Slope Food Coop is shown to be an example of a successful CBPP initiative. The analysis shows that not all CBPP initiatives use complex technology in the production process. Commoning, generating value through cooperation, self-organization, openness to participation, democratic community governance mechanisms, heterarchy, and localization make communities more resilient and sustainable. It is vital to produce more digital commons in this field to spread best practices globally.
Keywords: commons, commons-based peer production, grassroots initiatives, sustainability transitions, food cooperatives
