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Valuing third sector sustainability organisations - qualitative contributions to systemic social transformation

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 16:43 authored by Lyth, A, Baldwin, C, Aidan DavisonAidan Davison, Fidelman, P, Kate BoothKate Booth, Osborne, C
The number and diversity of civil society or third sector sustainability organisations (TSSOs) has increased in recent decades. TSSOs play a prominent role in local approaches to sustainability. However, the contributions made by TSSOs are not fully understood, beyond a limited suite of quantifiable outputs and impacts. In this qualitative study we examine how four TSSOs from two Australian regions, Tasmania and Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, contribute to social transformation beyond discrete outputs. We examine the operation, ethos, scope and influence of these organisations over time. In so doing, we identify three common ways in which these organisations facilitate social change: by i) enhancing social connectivity through boundary work; ii) mobilizing participatory citizenship; and iii) contributing to social learning. We conclude that TSSOs contribute significantly to the systemic social conditions that enable change for sustainability and the development of community resilience and wellbeing, but do so in ways undervalued by existing metrics, formal evaluation processes and funding models. Clearer recognition of, and strategic emphasis on, these qualitative contributions to social transformation is vital in ensuring that TSSOs remain viable and effective over the long-term.

Funding

University of the Sunshine Coast

History

Publication title

Local Environment

Volume

22

Pagination

1-21

ISSN

1354-9839

Department/School

School of Geography, Planning and Spatial Sciences

Publisher

Routledge

Place of publication

United Kingdom

Rights statement

Copyright 2016 Taylor & Francis

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Sustainability indicators

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    University Of Tasmania

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