Subsistence-based

Describing an economic system or way of life where individuals or communities primarily rely on their own efforts and resources to meet their basic needs for survival. This typically involves producing food, shelter, and other necessities directly, rather than through market-based exchange. subsistence-based societies often exhibit limited specialization and surplus production, with a strong connection to the land and its natural resources. The focus is on meeting immediate needs rather than accumulating wealth or engaging in large-scale trade. This mode of living is commonly found in rural areas and among indigenous populations, but it can also exist in urban settings during times of economic hardship. It emphasizes self-sufficiency and a close relationship with the environment.

Subsistence-based meaning with examples

• The remote village followed a subsistence-based lifestyle for centuries, cultivating crops and raising livestock solely for their family's consumption. Their entire existence was dependent on the success of the harvest and the health of their animals. They bartered any surplus they occasionally had for the items they could not produce themselves, like tools. Their survival directly rested on their own resourcefulness and cooperation.
• During the economic depression, many families resorted to a subsistence-based existence, growing their own gardens and bartering services with neighbors to make ends meet. This return to self-reliance was essential for getting through the crisis. This became necessary as more traditional forms of income dried up due to massive unemployment. The shift showcased their resilience and the importance of resourcefulness.
• The indigenous tribe practiced subsistence-based hunting and gathering, moving with the seasons to access different food sources. This lifestyle required deep knowledge of the environment, understanding animal migration patterns and the location of edible plants. The survival of the tribe was inextricably linked to the conservation of their habitat. Their traditions and culture were passed down to generations.
• Facing political instability and limited access to external resources, the refugee camp evolved into a subsistence-based community, developing collective gardens and workshops to produce essential goods. Without access to external markets, they created a localized economy. It relied heavily on sharing resources, skills, and any tools people could find to produce their own goods and services, which were critical for survival.
• Though living in a modern society, some urban dwellers are shifting towards a subsistence-based approach, growing their own food in community gardens and reducing their reliance on mass-produced goods. This movement reflects a desire for greater self-sufficiency and environmental sustainability. They are driven by an ethical standpoint and wanting to lessen their impact.