The Association "Campi Aperti per la Sovranità Alimentare" is built on several fundamental principles. It emphasizes a relational economy over a market economy to create concrete solidarity between consumers and producers, who share common goals such as health, environmental protection, and work dignity. The association values short supply chains as a strategic choice to boost the local economy, preserve local crops and cultures, and encourage the production of high-quality food. Direct sales play a crucial role in highlighting the environmental stewardship of local producers, keeping food prices low, and fostering a close relationship between consumers and producers.
The association exclusively endorses organic and biodynamic farming as the only methods that truly preserve the environment and the health of both workers and consumers. It also employs a participatory guarantee system, which involves all members—both producers and consumers—in the selection and monitoring process. This system includes visits to new producers and regular checks on existing members to ensure adherence to production techniques, personal competence, and fair labor practices. New members are expected to actively participate in the association's activities and comply with market regulations.
Environmental sustainability is a core principle, with the association evaluating products based on their entire life cycle, from raw material use to post-consumption disposal. Peasant farming is recognized as a modern, alternative production method that maximizes the value of human labor and guarantees farmers a dignified income. Fair and transparent pricing is pursued to strengthen the solidarity between producers and consumers. Finally, by fostering new relationships between producers and consumers, the association aims to reinforce Solidarity Economy Networks and develop a true Solidarity Economy District.