Emerging eco-practices : the development and governance of sustainable consumption behavior in Ukraine

Summary

In the midst of political instability and economic hardship, some Ukrainians are changing their consumption behavior towards more sustainable practices. In this thesis, the emergence of sustainable consumption practices (eco-practices) in Ukraine over the last 10 years are investigated from a sociological practice theory approach. Two cases of emerging eco-practices were studied over the course of four weeks of field work: cycling in Lviv and organic food consumption in Kiev. Their development over the last 5 years is described in detail, analyzed and assessed from social, economic, political and cultural perspectives. The study reveals that a complex mix of demographic change, regional differentiation, increasing education levels and purchasing power, and renewed civic engagement drive the process of ecological modernization of consumption. Local leadership, minimal enabling social and technical infrastructure, and activist groups are found to be key elements in the (successful) promotion of the studied eco-practices. Finally, conclusions are drawn and recommendations are made regarding the governance of eco-practices in Ukraine.