There is no ‘Planet B’ – it’s time to make a bold and brave commitment for a better food future.
The way we produce and consume food is highly unsustainable. Four of the nine ‘Planetary Boundaries’ have been exceeded, a third of food grown and produced is wasted, and diet-related illness is a leading cause of death globally. There is no ‘Planet B’. We need a common vision and collective action to address multiple food system challenges at the same time. A single issue approach will take too long.
Today, there is widespread awareness of sustainability issues affecting the food system – the system that encompasses everything it takes to grow, harvest, process, package, transport, promote, cook, consume and dispose of food. Businesses are expected to play an active role in finding solutions and simply aiming to be ‘sustainable’ is not going to be good enough. Goals and actions must be defined much more explicitly to avoid confusion, misinterpretation or greenwashing. Together, we need to create a regenerative, nourishing and fair food system.
Regenerative
A ‘regenerative’ food system is restorative and resilient, and considers the holistic relationship between human wellbeing and planetary health. It supports a circular approach where waste is minimised and natural resources are used within planetary limits. Regenerative farming moves away from monoculture agriculture – a leading cause of biodiversity loss and soil nutrient depletion – and instead creates a system that respects seasonality, helps sequester carbon, protects pollinators and re-connects us with the way food is grown.
Nourishing
A ‘nourishing’ food system provides all life with the type of food and nutrients needed to thrive. It brings individuals and communities closer together, to help create food security for all. A nourishing diet celebrates plant based ingredients for the benefit of both human and planetary health. Food is more than nutrients – it also provides pleasure, connectivity and cultural nourishment. Traditions, knowledge and cooking skills play a big role in how we are able to feed ourselves.
Fair
A ‘fair’ food system is ethical, equitable and adheres to values that respect people, animals and the planet. It ensures a fair return to farmers, transparent supply chains, high animal welfare standards and just working conditions – modern slavery is more common than you think. A fair system provides ‘sustainable food environments’ where food is affordable and accessible, both adults and children are protected from unhealthy marketing, and authentic food information and education is abundant.
