Sustainable food systems
Our current food system places a heavy burden on people, the environment, and society. We need to find a new balance between what we eat, how we produce it, and under what conditions. But how to accelerate the transition to a sustainable food system?
About sustainable food systems
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What is a food system?
A food system includes all people, processes, and resources involved in producing, processing, and consuming food — from farms and fisheries to markets and households. Operating at local and global scales, food systems shape what we eat and how it is made. Their influence reaches far beyond nutrition, affecting ecosystems, land and water use, livelihoods, and economies. As such, food systems are central to both human well-being and the health of our planet.
Why does food need a systems approach?
A systems approach means looking at the bigger picture when making changes, and considering how those changes affect the wider network of people, resources, and environments. By analysing social, economic, nutritional, and ecological factors together, it helps identify both opportunities and trade-offs. This integrated perspective allows for smarter, more effective interventions that strengthen food systems and maximise positive impact while avoiding unintended consequences.
Why do we need to change our food system?
Our global food system both sustains and strains the planet. It drives about a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions, uses half of all habitable land and most of the world’s freshwater, and wastes around one-third of all food produced. At the same time, it reflects deep social inequalities: billions face hunger or malnutrition while others overconsume. Climate change and conflict further threaten food security. Building fair, healthy and resilient food systems is essential for people and the planet.
What is a food system?
A food system includes all people, processes, and resources involved in producing, processing, and consuming food — from farms and fisheries to markets and households. Operating at local and global scales, food systems shape what we eat and how it is made. Their influence reaches far beyond nutrition, affecting ecosystems, land and water use, livelihoods, and economies. As such, food systems are central to both human well-being and the health of our planet.
Why does food need a systems approach?
A systems approach means looking at the bigger picture when making changes, and considering how those changes affect the wider network of people, resources, and environments. By analysing social, economic, nutritional, and ecological factors together, it helps identify both opportunities and trade-offs. This integrated perspective allows for smarter, more effective interventions that strengthen food systems and maximise positive impact while avoiding unintended consequences.
Why do we need to change our food system?
Our global food system both sustains and strains the planet. It drives about a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions, uses half of all habitable land and most of the world’s freshwater, and wastes around one-third of all food produced. At the same time, it reflects deep social inequalities: billions face hunger or malnutrition while others overconsume. Climate change and conflict further threaten food security. Building fair, healthy and resilient food systems is essential for people and the planet.
A sustainable food future
A sustainable food future means rebalancing what we eat, how we produce, and under what conditions food is made. Healthy, largely plant-based diets align with planetary goals; farming must restore soils and biodiversity while ensuring fair incomes and safe labour. Building resilient, regionally connected food systems will help secure nutritious, climate-proof food for all.
Pathways to a sustainable food future
A food transition in progress
Impactful projects (4)
Let’s build sustainable food systems together
A healthy future starts with food that is fair, safe and sustainably produced. From farm to fork, and from land to sea – everyone has a role in the food system. Wageningen University & Research (WUR) works on food systems that balance people, nature and economy. We do so through research, education and cooperation with companies, governments and civil society organisations. Only together can we ensure food security within our planet’s boundaries.
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Discover our themes
Sustainable food systems
We need to find a new balance between what we eat, how we produce it, and the conditions under which it is grown.
Biodiversity and resilient ecosystems
The interaction between plants, animals and ecosystems keeps our environment healthy, nutritious and resilient. How do we preserve that balance?
Global health
In a healthy world, it is not only people who thrive. Our health is connected to the health of all living things.
Climate-proof futures
To withstand the impacts of climate change, adaptation is essential — from green cities to nature-inclusive agriculture.
Biobased and circular society
In a circular society, we close resource loops, use renewable materials and generate almost no waste.
Sustainable water and land use
How do we manage our water and land so that these vital resources remain available for future generations?
Sustainable food systems
We need to find a new balance between what we eat, how we produce it, and the conditions under which it is grown.
Biodiversity and resilient ecosystems
The interaction between plants, animals and ecosystems keeps our environment healthy, nutritious and resilient. How do we preserve that balance?
Global health
In a healthy world, it is not only people who thrive. Our health is connected to the health of all living things.
Climate-proof futures
To withstand the impacts of climate change, adaptation is essential — from green cities to nature-inclusive agriculture.
Biobased and circular society
In a circular society, we close resource loops, use renewable materials and generate almost no waste.
Sustainable water and land use
How do we manage our water and land so that these vital resources remain available for future generations?