Every October 16, millions of people around the world come together to commemorate World Food Day, a date that goes beyond simply recognizing the importance of food. This day is a call to action, a reminder that food security remains a global challenge, but also an opportunity to build a sustainable and just future. And this year is even more significant, as it marks the culmination of FUSILLI, a European project that has been a catalyst for transformations in various cities, demonstrating how change is possible at the local level and how our daily decisions have a global impact.
This year, in 2024, the theme is more powerful than ever: “Right to foods for a better life and a better future” Access to adequate and nutritious food is a fundamental right, yet over 700 million people still suffer from hunger worldwide. But how did we get here? And what can we do to change this reality?
Climate change, conflicts, and economic crises have increasingly driven more people into food insecurity. At the same time, food production is one of the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. It seems like a paradox: the system that feeds us is also harming the planet. So, what do we do? What does this mean for you and me, in our daily decisions?
The solution starts with us. Every choice we make, from what we eat to how we produce it, has a profound impact. Adopting healthier diets not only benefits our health but also the planet. For example, reducing the consumption of ultra-processed foods and prioritizing plant-based ones can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. A recent study shows that if everyone ate more balanced diets, the global carbon footprint of food could be reduced by up to 30%.nding for all.
Cities like Castelo Branco have worked intensively to educate children and adults on how to achieve a more balanced diet through their “product of the month” initiative, an effort that aims to reconnect communities with fresh, seasonal, and healthy foods. Additionally, they’ve made sure community events include healthier options for younger ones, promoting the importance of good nutrition from an early age.
A similar example can be seen in Tampere, where the “planetary diet” initiative has gained momentum. Through workshops and educational programs, this Finnish city has made a concerted effort to help its citizens understand the importance of reducing animal product consumption and increasing the intake of fruits, vegetables, and grains, following diet recommendations that are better for both people and the environment. These actions show us that adopting a more conscious approach to what we eat is not an impossible task—it starts with small steps.
But it’s not just about what we eat; it’s also about how we manage it. Food waste is an alarming problem. Did you know that nearly one-third of the food produced worldwide is lost or wasted each year? This not only represents a missed opportunity to feed millions of people, but also an inefficient use of natural resources like water, land, and energy. Small actions like better planning of our purchases, properly storing food, and making the most of leftovers can make a big difference. An inspiring example is the “zero waste” movement, which encourages reducing waste at home by using simple methods like composting or donating surplus food. Innovative initiatives are emerging in various cities to combat this issue.
In Turin, for instance, they have launched a project that repurposes leftover food to create new products, such as their “circular pizza,” made with ingredients that would otherwise have ended up in the trash. This approach not only helps reduce waste but also raises awareness among consumers about the importance of maximizing the use of food.
Sustainable agricultural practices also play a crucial role. A sustainable food system must protect biodiversity, care for the land, and use resources efficiently. Farmers worldwide are adopting techniques such as regenerative agriculture, which not only produces food but also restores soils, captures carbon, and improves ecosystem health. Supporting these practices by choosing local and seasonal products or those with sustainable certifications is a direct way we can contribute.
In Nilüfer, significant efforts have been made to protect agricultural lands and promote farming practices that respect the environment and biodiversity. This Turkish municipality has embraced regenerative agriculture and efficient resource use, showing how local communities can lead the way toward a food system that not only feeds but also restores damaged ecosystems.
The FUSILLI project, concluding this year in 2024, has been an inspiring example of how cities can lead the way in food system transformation. Each of the cities involved has addressed critical issues like health, waste, and sustainability, demonstrating that solutions are possible and scalable. Thanks to these initiatives, the theme of this World Food Day is embodied: ensuring the access and right to food not only improves lives but paves the way for a sustainable and equitable future.
Together, we can transform our food systems into ones that nourish both people and the planet. We don’t need to make drastic changes overnight. Every small gesture, like supporting local markets, choosing fair trade products, or even reducing meat consumption once a week, adds up. Globally, these changes can ease the pressure on our ecosystems, helping to ensure that future generations also have access to sufficient and nutritious food. Let’s follow the example of cities like Castelo Branco, Tampere, Turin, Nilüfer, San Sebastián, Oslo, Rome, Athens, Rijeka, Kharkiv, Differdange, and Kolding, which show us that change is possible. (https://fusilli-project.eu/cities/).
On this World Food Day 2024, the power is in our hands. By changing the way we eat, consume, and produce food, we can be part of the solution to one of humanity’s greatest challenges. It’s not just a matter of personal choice, but a collective responsibility. Because what’s at stake is not just our health, but the health of the planet we all share. Every plate on our table tells a story: of the land, the farmers, and the ecosystems. And that story, with collective effort, can have a happy ending for all.
Author: Julia Pinedo Gil, FUSILLI Coordinator
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