Exploring the Intersection of Economic Democracy, and Environmental Sustainability. A case study of the Danish Agricultural Co-operative Andelsgaarde

Abstract: This thesis examines the intersection of economic democracy and environmental sustainability in the agricultural sector, using the Danish agricultural co-operative Andelsgaarde as a case study. Employing the theoretical framework of economic democracy, as described by Dahl (1985), Archer (1995), and Malleson (2012), the study analyses Andelsgaarde's approach towards realising its environmental sustainability objectives within the co-operative model. A quasi-deductive research methodology is used to assess the alignment of Andelsgaarde's operations with the concepts of economic democracy, including democratic ownership and decision-making, participatory planning, objectives beyond profit, and radical realism. The findings reveal a significant alignment between Andelsgaarde's strategies and the concepts of economic democracy. Furthermore, the study suggests that these concepts may facilitate environmental sustainability. However, the conclusions emphasise the need for further research to validate these findings. Consequently, this thesis contributes to the accumulating body of research at the intersection of economic democracy, co-operatives, and environmental sustainability, advocating for additional studies to further understand these connections in different contexts.