Social farming as a narrative for ecological social work and environmental justice

This paper examines the intersection of environmental justice and social work through the lens of social farming. This practice seeks to improve the lives of individuals facing complex challenges in an agricultural contexts. Environmental justice emphasises the equitable distribution of environmental benefits and the minimisation of harm, particularly for marginalised communities. The article argues, based on data gathered on social farms in the Czech Republic, Germany and Slovakia, that social farms serve as vital institutions that integrate social support and environmental stewardship, offering participants meaningful activities and employment in a nurturing, green setting. The study employs mixed-methods research, including interviews with farmers, social workers and therapists employed on farms, and online surveys, to understand how participants engage with environmental justice. They foster a sense of responsibility toward the environment, transforming passive care recipients into active contributors to their physical surroundings. Through this approach, the article illustrates the practical embodiment of environmental justice in social work, advocating for a harmonious relationship between human well-being and ecological integrity.