Food Policy

The Food System :: Just and Sustainable :: Sustainability

Creating a Just and Sustainable Food System in the City of Vancouver

Encouraging the availability of nutritious locally produced and accessible food is one of the hallmarks of an inclusive community. For a municipality to encourage this, broad consideration must be given to issues pertaining to the production, processing, distribution and consumption of food, as well as matters of access and waste management. Ensuring the vitality of the food system means that strong links need to be made between food policy, planning, and on-the-ground (and in-the-ground) activities. It also means ensuring that broader goals of sustainability are integrated into this process.

On July 8, 2003, Vancouver City Council approved a motion supporting the development of a just and sustainable food system for the City of Vancouver. After extensive community consultation, a Food Action Plan was approved by City Council in December 2003. The tools used to achieve the goals expressed in the Food Action Plan are part of the City’s basket of food policies.

Understanding Food Systems A just and sustainable food system is defined as one in which food production, processing, distribution and consumption are integrated to enhance the environmental, economic, social and nutritional health of a particular place. The food system covers all aspects of food - from field to table and back again. The systems approach covers everything from farming and agricultural practices to the manufacture and packaging of food and food products. It also includes the transportation, sale and distribution of food, as well as the waste that it generates. Perhaps most gratifyingly, it also covers food consumption - the what, where, when, why and how of eating! Learn more about the City’s work in these areas.
		Production | Processing | Access | Distribution | Consumption | Waste Management

Figure 1. Goals of a Community Food System. Source: S. Garrett and G. Feenstra “Growing a Community Food System”

The Food System and Sustainability The Venn diagram produced by Garrett and Feenstra (to the left) illustrate the overlapping nature of the components of the Food System and link them with the overarching concept of sustainability. A well-functioning Food System not only builds human health and social well-being, but is good for the environment and the economy.

The Food Policy webpages contain an abundance of information about Vancouver’s Food System, it’s Food Policy Council and a range of other initiatives. Please take a tour!

Learn more about the role of food policy and it contributes to sustainability.

View the various components of the food system.

[top]