Situational Analysis of Local Food Production in a Northern Setting: A Holistic Nursing Perspective
Date
2025-04-21
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
ORCID
0000-0003-3742-2285
Type
Thesis
Degree Level
Doctoral
Abstract
Food security and robust food systems in Canada are pressing health concerns for people and the planet, with Northern communities experiencing food insecurity rates significantly higher than the national average. This qualitative study explores the social conditions and community capacity for local food production in Inuvik, Northwest Territories as situated in the regional food system, with a specific focus on community food security and promoting community health.
The Inuvik Community Greenhouse (ICG) has implemented a containerized hydroponic growing system and supportive energy infrastructure alongside their community greenhouse for year-round food production. Using Situational Analysis (Clarke et al., 2018), I developed analytical maps describing the situation of the local food production. Data collection involved interviews with diverse actors within the regional food system, including local food producers, governance professionals, technologists, and community members. Framed within a holistic nursing and equity perspective, the research situates local food production in a regional food system, and investigates the intersections between social conditions, technology, and community capacity in fostering food system agency and adaptation in Northern settings. The aim of this study is to explore community capacity for local food production in a Northern Canadian region and define the nursing role in promoting localized food systems.
The situation has three social worlds and five spheres of action, highlighting the complex nature of working in the food system, both locally and regionally. The analysis uncovered processes that inhibit, promote, and potentially transform local food production. Northern food systems are transitioning, with crises acting as both challenges and opportunities. A supportive way forward is centred on shared values, cross-sector engagement with relevant parties, and political will that allows for autonomy in decision-making.
The findings underscore the importance of embedding food production in relation to the broader sociopolitical and environmental systems, and the technological capacity to enhance community uptake in addressing food system challenges. This research supports the community-based organizations and nurses who are intervening in a food system, and decision-makers considering similar ventures. By examining the nursing role in promoting a local food system, the study identifies opportunities for nurses to advocate for equitable food systems, support community capacity building, and address social determinants of health through collaborative, place-based approaches. Ultimately, this situational analysis advances the understanding of how local food production intersects with health, social conditions, and a changing climate in a remote Northern community, offering practical insights for policy, practice, and future research.
Description
Keywords
Circumpolar agriculture, hydroponic, community greenhouse, local food, food system, community food security
Citation
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Department
Nursing
Program
Nursing