Social innovation in a tourist coastal city: a case study in Argentina

Purpose This study aims to reflect on the interactions that result from the use of the seacoast in a small touristic town in Argentina. Agents in conflict are both beach users: on the one hand, tourists that enjoy sunbathing and, on the other hand, the artisanal fishermen who use the seacoast as a space for the circulation of tractors and boats and commercialization of their production in informal conditions. The case aimed to provide evidence on social innovation as a mobilizer of the creativity of citizens, the organizations of the third sector and public and private actors for the development of new solutions and better use of common resources. Design/methodology/approach This paper followed the methodology of the centre for research on social innovations (as per its initials in French) as proposed by Tardif and Harrisson (2005). The fieldwork was carried out with interviews to the stakeholders, visits of recognition and direct participation in the territory. Findings The paper provides empirical insights about how an overarching project arises from agreements between stakeholders and a public policy that promotes it. Governance mechanisms to promote sustainable fisheries, to create cooperative management methods and to support alternative livelihood programmes are essential for preventing conflicts and mitigating their impacts on fishing communities. Originality/value The value of this paper is to show how social innovation can emerge from civil society initiatives and how the state can create conditions to favour it, participating and cooperating in a process of co-construction.