About this Research Topic
In a context where we are increasingly moving away from fulfilling Pacts and Sustainable Development Goals, constructing a better possible future in terms of planetary health, with an emphasis on healthy and green food systems, and addressing the needs of a growing population without exerting undue pressure on the environment is paramount. Food systems are central to the climate crisis debate not only because of their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions or the stress they will face with drought but also because of their essential potential to foster healthy, resilient communities in the face of a complex future. Spatial considerations are crucial in this context; the spatial organization of urban planning, design, and infrastructure can significantly impact the efficiency and sustainability of food systems. Integrating spatial epidemiology can identify areas most vulnerable to food insecurity and environmental stress, enabling targeted interventions that promote equitable access to healthy food.
The latest United Nations projections suggest that the world population will reach 8.5 billion by 2030 and 9.7 billion by the 2050s, increasing pressure on food systems. This pressure will be compounded by changing demands due to a globally aging population. Therefore, new studies are necessary to develop sustainable food production strategies that promote population well-being while considering spatial dynamics and infrastructure development.
When food systems prioritize economic profits and productivity, they can create a vicious cycle of diseases and symptoms that primarily affect the most vulnerable in society. However, by addressing the social, economic, environmental, and health determinants and analyzing critical points along these pathways, food systems can positively impact the health and well-being of the population. To effect change in the thinking of decision-makers and ensure better health outcomes through food systems, it is essential to consider changes in food system governance, policies, and practices. This entails addressing the physical, economic, social, and environmental determinants of health. Improvements in health can be grounded in the concepts of healthy and sustainable diets; democratic, transparent, and accountable politics and governance; and accessible interdisciplinary research.
Scope:
- Food insecurity as a global problem in developing countries.
- Food production at risk from the climate crisis and population explosion.
- Healthy food resilience.
- Political strategies for sustainable and healthy food production.
- Food education in the context of the climate crisis.
- Urban planning and food production, a sustainable match for the well-being of the population.
Article Types accepted:
Mini Review
Opinion
Perspective
Original Research
The latest United Nations projections suggest that the world population will reach 8.5 billion by 2030 and 9.7 billion by the 2050s, increasing pressure on food systems. This pressure will be compounded by changing demands due to a globally aging population. Therefore, new studies are necessary to develop sustainable food production strategies that promote population well-being while considering spatial dynamics and infrastructure development.
When food systems prioritize economic profits and productivity, they can create a vicious cycle of diseases and symptoms that primarily affect the most vulnerable in society. However, by addressing the social, economic, environmental, and health determinants and analyzing critical points along these pathways, food systems can positively impact the health and well-being of the population. To effect change in the thinking of decision-makers and ensure better health outcomes through food systems, it is essential to consider changes in food system governance, policies, and practices. This entails addressing the physical, economic, social, and environmental determinants of health. Improvements in health can be grounded in the concepts of healthy and sustainable diets; democratic, transparent, and accountable politics and governance; and accessible interdisciplinary research.
Scope:
- Food insecurity as a global problem in developing countries.
- Food production at risk from the climate crisis and population explosion.
- Healthy food resilience.
- Political strategies for sustainable and healthy food production.
- Food education in the context of the climate crisis.
- Urban planning and food production, a sustainable match for the well-being of the population.
Article Types accepted:
Mini Review
Opinion
Perspective
Original Research
Keywords: Food System, Sustainables Diets, Food Policy, Healthy Diets, Spatial epidemiology
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