Geopolitical conflicts, advancing climate change, economic crises and the growing demand for renewable raw materials are putting pressure on the European food and nutrition system. At the same time, the existing system has an impact on global greenhouse gas emissions, the depletion and waste of resources, the loss of biodiversity, and forms of undernutrition, overnutrition and malnutrition, along with the resulting health consequences and costs. In order to enhance resilience and food security, it is necessary to take joint steps towards a sustainable food and nutrition system – one that is sustainable from an environmental, economic, social and health perspective.  

“A sustainable approach to planetary boundaries and their inherent interdependencies requires a systemic approach – this also applies to the food and nutrition system. The aim here is to identify potential conflicts of interest but also to harness effective synergies,” emphasises Jürgen Schneider, Head of the Environment and Climate Section at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Climate and Environmental Protection, Regions and Water Management (BMLUK).

In Austria, necessary steps are being taken towards a systemic, holistic view of the food and nutrition system. “Sustainable consumer protection and the promotion of consumer health require a systemic approach that makes healthy nutrition affordable for everyone. Here, it is important to directly integrate demand-driven measures – such as clear labelling, dietary recommendations or criteria for public procurement – with production,” said Ulrich Herzog, Head of the Consumer Policy and Consumer Health Section at the Federal Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection (BMASGPK).

At the annual conference organised by the AGES Service Centre for Sustainable Food and Nutrition Systems, representatives from the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, the Vienna University of Economics and Business, and the Austrian Institute of Economic Research spoke about the opportunities and challenges for a sustainable food and nutrition system.

“Agriculture is central to a sustainable food and nutrition system within planetary boundaries. Practical solutions that combine environmental and climate protection with food security and economic viability are crucial. Research, efficient use of resources and reliable framework conditions strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of the food and nutrition system. The AGES Service Centre supports this transition as a key interface by pooling knowledge, promoting exchange and supporting sustainable solutions for the entire system,” said Elmar Ritzinger, Head of the Food and Nutrition Systems Department at the BMLUK.