Co-creating resIlient and susTaInable food systEms towardS FOOD2030

Contributors and authors

Dr. Suzanne van Osch – Postdoctoral researcher at the Instituut voor Milieuvraagstukken IVM,
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Overview

To support CITIES2030’s goal to create more sustainable, resilient, and equitable food
environments, this guide offers a step-by-step approach to establishing policy living labs within
the context of City Region Food Systems (CRFS).
CRFS recognizes the interconnectedness of food production, distribution, consumption, and
waste within a specific geographic area. Optimizing CRFS can address challenges like food
insecurity, environmental degradation, and economic disparities. The ultimate goal of CRFS
labs is to identify methods for transforming food systems to be “more sustainable, resilient,
diverse, inclusive, and competitive for the benefit of society” (European Commission, 2017).
Drawing heavily from the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact (FAO & RUAF, 2019), this guide provides
practical tools and resources for practitioners working in the food systems domain to establish
and operate successful policy living labs. These labs are essential for testing and refining
policies that promote sustainable and equitable food systems. By fostering experimentation and
collaboration, they accelerate the transition to a more resilient food future.

If you are interested to read more, download the document.