Circuits of Commerce of Local Currencies

A Case Study

Abstract

Actors create local currencies as a tool to promote a local economy that respects the environment. But structuring a network of users goes well beyond launching an alternative media of exchange. Based on a case study of the Léman currency in Switzerland, this article draws on the concept of circuit of commerce introduced by Viviana Zelizer and assesses its relevance for characterizing associative local currencies. The analysis provides a better understanding of the specificities and challenges of this type of circuit of commerce.