Promoting Local Food Systems for Community and Economic Development

<p>Rick Morse is a School of Government faculty member.</p> <p></p> <p>By now most people have at least heard of the “local foods” movement. Thanks to Michael Pollan and his compatriots, terms like “locavore” and “foodshed” have made their way into our lexicon. The idea here is to create “more locally based, self-reliant food economies.” The argument is part of a larger one about sustainability, that “sustainable local food systems” are better for public health, the environment, and the local economy.  Thus developing local foods systems can be seen as a strategy for sustainable community and economic development. This post discusses why this may be the case and offers several examples of how local governments and other community institutions can play an active role in developing local food systems.</p> <p>First of all, the why. There are many arguments in favor of local food systems. First, local foods are fresher and less processed, and therefore thought to be more healthy.  A major research effort at MIT recommends a reorientation toward local food systems as a key strategy in addressing an epidemic of childhood obesity. Local foods are also seen as better for the environment as less fossil fuels are consumed in transporting them. Furthermore, local food systems emphasize smaller-scale farms that employ more sustainable farming methods. The local food movement is also viewed as a way to strengthen local economies by supporting family farms and keeping money circulating in the community. Furthermore, the components of a strong local food economy such as farmer’s markets, community gardens, and grocery stores [...]</p>