Synergistic effect of relational values in a participatory guarantee system: a case study of an ecoagriculture initiative in Taiwan

Transitioning to ecoagriculture is a crucial strategy for addressing the problem of a rapid decline in global biodiversity. Scholars have increasingly considered how relational values (RVs) can support a transition to ecoagriculture, with a focus on integration of these values into governance methods. We conducted a case study of the Green Conservation (GC) participatory guarantee system (PGS) in Taiwan, using semi-structured interviews and participatory observations to investigate the RV–PGS synergistic effect. Our findings indicate that different forms of RV motivated a farming promotion group and farmers to endorse and participate in the PGS. Additionally, we discovered that RVs can create mutual attractions and shared values and thereby foster collective actions in the PGS. These actions subsequently enhance stakeholders’ RVs through human–nature and human–human interactions. Such interactions involve ecoagricultural practices sharing, wildlife observation, and mutual affirmation. The findings also reveal that the PGS led to a shift in the stakeholder role from auditor to long-term companion, which enhanced the socialization processes within the system and led to the development of a community characterized by shared collective RVs. This community dynamic led to an intrinsic commitment to ecoagriculture among members influenced by a benevolent relationship with nature. On the basis of these observations, we recommend a stewardship governance approach to PGSs, highlighting the importance of integrating RVs into ecoagriculture governance.