Why do we need a Sustainable Food Plan?
A food plan is critical in:
- Helping to make food more of a priority in your city;
- Realising the pivotal role, it can play in driving positive social, economic and environmental change;
- Working together with a food partnership, the plan is central to establishing a joined up approach to food related issues.
Consultation on a new city food plan for 2022 – 2032 is underway and will run until September this year. We need to ensure that it is relevant and provides a framework to support our vision and carbon net zero goals for Edinburgh.
Challenges and opportunities
- Climate change and impacts of food higher up the agenda, how we can help Edinburgh achieve 2030 net zero emissions target;
- Supporting the delivery plans for Edinburgh’s Food Growing Strategy;
- Scottish Government strategy to end the need for foodbanks and need to work together to reduce food inequality and poor health;
- Edinburgh’s green recovery from Covid-19 with business engagement that matches needs and market expectations;
- Good Food Nation bill and the responsibility of local authorities to develop integrated food policies.
Edible Edinburgh is supporting action in six key areas:
Food Equality
Work in partnership to monitor levels of food insecurity and address the challenges of access to sustainable, affordable, healthy food for all through a coordinated response.
Locally produced food
Grow, produce and distribute food more locally while protecting our natural resources and environment. Support schools growing, urban food production at Lauriston and other sites in the city.
Food and the environment
Reduce food waste, increase redistribution of surplus food, and reduce environmental impact from food waste. Ensure food becomes part of the city climate conversation and plans.
Food procurement and catering
Develop local supply chains and capacity to ensure that public catering benefits the local food economy. Work with schools, producers and the Soil Association to increase standards and accreditation.
Local food economy
Develop a diverse, independent food sector that offers a variety of skills, training and job opportunities. Provide resources to support businesses adopting sustainable actions including a directory and toolkit.
Building a good food movement
Inspire and support people to connect with food, get involved as active citizens and build their future food systems. Hold at least two annual events for the public to support and inspire.
Resources
Glasgow Food and Climate Declaration is a commitment by subnational governments to tackle the climate emergency through integrated food policies and a call on national governments to act
Nourish Scotland is a charity focusing on food policy and practice.
Scottish Food Coalition – a diverse alliance of civil society organisations working for food justice
Sustainable Food Places is a partnership programme led by the Soil Association, Food Matters and Sustain: the alliance for better food and farming.