The Role of Social Capital in Mountain Dairy Systems: Two Examples From Grisons, Switzerland

ABSTRACT The global corporate agro‐food system has marginalised food production in remote regions where mountain dairy farming has historically utilised non‐arable land for livestock grazing. This decline has weakened local food value chains, even though mountain dairy systems function as values‐based supply chains that integrate social and ecological values into food production. This study examined the role of social capital, specifically bonding, bridging, and linking ties, in shaping actor relationships in mountainous dairy supply chains in Grisons, Switzerland. We compared a cooperatively organised system with an independently structured one to explore how social capital influences food production, distribution and marketing. Cooperative structures foster both bonding and bridging connections, whereas independently organised dairy systems rely more heavily on bonding ties at the farm level. Strengthening social capital through new collaborations and revitalised relationships, by building improved bridging and linking networks, is essential for driving future territorial innovation and viability.