Which governance models can orchestrate sustainable food systems?
How can governance shape more sustainable food systems? A recent article co-authored by FOODPathS partners explores this question by analyzing 34 key studies. Discover the main highlights below!
The paper “Towards sustainable food systems: a review of governance models and an innovative conceptual framework” explores the importance of improving how food systems are governed during the times of social and environmental change. It highlights that achieving a sustainable transition requires new ways of working together—models that are participatory, collaborative, and democratic.
Co-authored by FOODPathS partners Mechthild Donner, Maurine Mames, and Hugo de Vries (project coordinator), this paper goes beyond the usual understanding of governance. While it still considers key elements like interactions between stakeholders, power imbalances, and (in)formal rules, it adds a new idea: the orchestration of food systems and policies. This new approach provides a framework for studying and improving how we manage food systems to make them more sustainable. The authors conclude that all these aspects need to work together to achieve real progress.
The paper also points out barriers that hold back sustainable food systems governance, including policy issues, corporate influence, and gaps in research. To overcome these challenges, both science and policy need to focus on creating solutions that address these problems directly.
Key Takeaways:
- Governance models should be inclusive, participatory, and sustainable, focusing on reducing power imbalances and supporting social, economic, and environmental goals.
- Collaboration among many different stakeholders is essential, including giving more power to smaller food system actors and civil society.
- Governance models need to be democratic and well-integrated, with shared responsibilities across different groups.
- New governance models need to balance power among key players and create value, while being flexible and consistent across all stakeholders.
The study makes it clear: to build sustainable food systems, we need innovative governance models that bring people together, create fair solutions, and adapt to the challenges we face today.
You can download and read the full article by clicking the button below!