Boosting Britain’s Food System: 3 Expert-Backed Strategies for Greater Resilience

In early 2022, just days before the invasion of Ukraine, a group of us began forming a network to rethink the UK food system. Now, three years later, our community has grown to over 3,000 members.

The UK food system is under pressure due to climate change, geopolitical tensions, and worries about sustainability. With the future feeling uncertain, we need to build resilience in a big way. Sticking to old ways simply won’t work.

Climate change will continue to impact agriculture, and our recent work has explored four potential futures for the UK food system by 2050. We examined different scenarios—like the possible return of previous political leaders and shifts in international trade rules—to consider their implications on food production and consumption.

Right now, the food system is responsible for about a quarter of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions. As we work to decarbonize energy and transportation, this share is expected to rise. Our research revealed some tough realities: we need to change not only our farming methods but also what we eat and how we use land.

To create a more resilient food system, we need to rethink three key areas:

1. Farming Direction: Just like after World War II, farmers need clear guidance. Back then, a technological shift helped productivity rise. Today, we must focus on low-carbon technologies while also managing what we produce and consume to become less dependent on imports.

2. Land Use: Farmers can play a major role in capturing carbon and adapting to climate change through smarter land management. The UK has less forest cover than much of Europe, but planting more trees can benefit both the environment and farming by improving soil stability and creating green jobs.

3. Dietary Changes: Shifting our diets can help our health and the planet. More fruits, veggies, and legumes can lead to a healthier population and a lower environmental impact, as highlighted in a recent report from the EAT Lancet Commission.

Our network has developed a roadmap to guide these changes through the 2020s, 2030s, and 2040s.

After World War II, the UK food system underwent a significant transformation. With changes in energy and transportation today, it’s crucial that we now focus on reshaping our food system. The aim is to build resilience in farming, resulting in benefits for society, public health, and the environment.

As we navigate these changes, it’s essential to remember that each small shift can lead to substantial improvements for future generations.

For more insights, you can check out this report on UK food emissions and learn about strategies from experts.

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