The Ellen Macarthur Foundation has published what may turn out to be seen as a “ground-breaking” study about a transition of the food system to a circular economy
The circular economy is increasingly recognised as a solutions framework to address global challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss. Moving towards a food system that builds natural capital and that is pro-nature, i.e. one that allows nature to thrive, is an essential part of the transition to a circular economy.
While the current food system has sustained a growing population and brought economic development, much of it is essentially ‘linear’ and extractive, particularly in more developed markets. It is wasteful, polluting, and depletive, and is the primary driver of biodiversity loss and accounts for a third of global greenhouse gas emissions.
This study looks at the role fast-moving consumer goods companies (FMCGs) and food retailers can play to move us towards a food system with significant positive impacts for business, people, and the environment. It explores the ways in which food products can be designed in closer collaboration with farmers, for nature. It also investigates the crucial enabling role of policies and incentives.
https://ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/the-big-food-redesign-study