Redesigning Food Systems: Sustainable Food System Transformation Pathways for LMICs informed by New Economic Paradigms (KB-53-000-005)

Post-growth challenges the focus on endless economic growth and strives for a “Safe and Just Operating Space” (SJOS). This research investigates how LMICs can develop sustainable food systems without following the consumption patterns of richer countries, by comparing alternative economic models and policy measures.

To explore how LMICs can develop without following the intensive consumption paths of richer countries, this project focuses on the role of current and alternative economic paradigms and related food system concepts in promoting sustainable and just food systems in LMICs.

We will examine the relevance of post-growth and alternative paradigms for the transformation of food systems in LMICs. This includes a literature review and case study analysis, based on previous research, to assess their application in food system research and practice. In addition, we will develop a political-economic framework that integrates principles of food sovereignty with alternative paradigms. Through theoretical framework analyses and case studies, we will examine governance structures, power dynamics and policy landscapes to identify practical strategies for prioritising domestic food value chains and realising food sovereignty ambitions. We also focus on micro-level interventions within the transformation of food systems. This includes a literature review and case study analysis of initiatives led by micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to offer sustainable and healthy food options and change consumer behaviour. Insights from this research will inform policy trials to test these interventions, depending on the interest and funding of local stakeholders.

Together, these lines of research aim to provide practical frameworks and tools for sustainable and equitable food system transformations, specifically tailored to the context of LMICs.