Sustainable Food Systems

Local food systems are dynamic networks that connect food production, processing, distribution, and consumption within a specific region. By prioritizing local agriculture and food businesses, these systems aim to create more resilient, sustainable, and equitable food networks. They significantly mitigate food insecurity by improving access to fresh, nutritious foods for all community members, while also playing a crucial role in the fight against climate change. Creating better food systems is a necessary component of building more sustainable, equitable, and resilient cities.

Food Waste Reduction

Every year, nearly 40% of food produced in the US ends up in landfills, where it emits substantial volumes of methane, a greenhouse gas more than 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide in trapping atmospheric heat. Food rescue, the practice of collecting surplus edible food and redistributing it to those in need, addresses food insecurity while reducing environmental impact. Diverting edible food from landfills prevents the release of harmful greenhouse gases like methane. Additionally, food rescue initiatives provide a sustainable solution to hunger, ensuring nutritious meals reach local communities and individuals facing food insecurity.

Sustainable Agriculture

Local small-scale farming represents a great opportunity for expanding and diversifying food systems while also mitigating climate change. Farming techniques such as using cover crops, minimal tilling, crop rotation, and agroforestry practices contribute to carbon sequestration and storage. Furthermore, these practices offer increased resilience to climate change-related events like heavy downpours and long droughts. Overall, sustainable local agriculture results in a more robust and sustainable food system.

Composting 

Composting is the process of breaking down organic waste, such as food scraps and yard trimmings, into nutrient-rich soil through natural decomposition. It is important because it reduces landfill waste, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and enhances soil health and fertility. Unfortunately, Only 12% of American households have access to public composting programs. As a result, 72% of Americans don't compost their food. Yet, a promising 69% say they would compost if they had better access, presenting a significant opportunity. Composting not only reduces waste sent to landfills but also decreases the need for fertilizers and pesticides, boosts agricultural productivity, prevents erosion and runoff, and enhances air and water quality. Community composting programs can bridge this gap by offering drop-off sites, pick-up services, and resources for home composting. By making composting more accessible, cities can significantly increase participation and reap the numerous benefits that composting brings.