Just and Sustainable Food Systems for Europe
How can we ensure a just transition to more sustainable food systems? Below is a summary of a report created to guide the EU Commission on this subject.
In an era of increasing global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity, it is evident that food plays a critical role in human existence and survival. However, our existing food systems are not sustainable and are unable to ensure nourishment for the generations to come. Therefore, there is a need for rapid transformation that is both socially equitable and environmentally sustainable. Without immediate action, food security for future generations is at risk of being compromised.
The evidence-based report ‘A Sustainable Food System for the European Union’ co-authored by Hugo de Vries (FOODPathS coordinator) and published by SAPEA (Science Advice for Policy by European Academies) , provides scientific advice to the EU Commission on how to achieve this transformation. It offers a comprehensive overview of actionable approaches to achieve an inclusive, just, and timely transition to sustainable food systems. This report not only highlights the co-benefits for health and the environment, but also looks into the socio-economic aspects, rural-urban differences, food waste, and consumer behavior that must be addressed. By adopting an integrated systems approach, the report reviews existing policies and practices and proposes innovative forward-thinking solutions to guide the EU’s strategy.
The key insights emerging from the report are listed below:
1.Current Food Systems’ Unsustainability:
The existing food systems are widely recognized as unsustainable, facing numerous challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity. An inclusive systems approach, which integrates social, economic, and environmental factors, is essential for addressing these challenges through policymaking.
2. Shifting to Circular and Inclusive Models:
Global sustainability and food security challenges require a shift from linear food production models to more circular and inclusive ones. This transition acknowledges the complex synergies and trade-offs between different levels of governance and stakeholders.
3.Need for a Comprehensive EU Food Policy Framework:
The current EU food policy lacks an overarching framework. However, successful examples of local-level interventions exist, ranging from regulatory measures (such as taxes and bans) to behavioral nudges for consumers. The right combination of policies can lead to effective solutions and drive the transition towards sustainable food systems.
4.Reorganizing Power Relations:
A critical aspect of transitioning to sustainable food systems is the reorganization of power relations. This involves engaging multiple levels of governance as well as including non-governmental actors – such as food producers, consumers, and scientists – in the policymaking process to foster change.
In summary, the report emphasizes the complexity of food systems and the importance of adopting a systems-thinking approach to uncover solutions. It calls for collective responsibility, strong leadership and collaborative actions across all sectors of society to drive this transformation. The insights and recommendations provided in this report are expected to help in shaping the EU’s food policy, potentially influencing legislative changes and guiding practical initiatives across member states.
To fully understand the depth of these findings and their implications, we encourage you to read the full report. Discover how these insights could influence the future of food systems in Europe and contribute to a more sustainable world.