Co-producing knowledge: Academics and non-academics partner to build synergistic teams to produce sustainable pathways to advance the emerging field of bamboo farming, manufacturing and processing in Alabama

Marcy L. Koontz

doi:10.31686/ijier.vol2.iss3.156

Authors

Marcy L. Koontz

The University of Alabama, USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31686/ijier.vol2.iss3.156

Keywords:

co-production of knowledge, sustainability research, bamboo, bamboo in Alabama

Abstract

Black Belt Bamboost project was developed to advance knowledge of bamboo as a catalyst for a new type of agricultural development, identify associated potential end markets, as well as its processing, manufacturing, and general awareness within the state of Alabama, specifically the Black Belt region. It exists to provide a launch pad for leaders in multidisciplinary research collaboration, education, and the community to partner in order to build synergistic teams to develop discoveries that will position Alabama to be a leader in the emerging field of bamboo farming, manufacturing and processing. It also serves as a platform for individuals engaged in creative pursuits using bamboo. This paper examines the development of this interdisciplinary community engagement project. With the belief that a co-production of knowledge is essential for developing more sustainable pathways, an agorist strategy was used to bring non-academic and academic communities along with public, private and governmental institutions together.

Author Biography

Marcy L. Koontz, The University of Alabama, USA

Associate Professor

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