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Benefits of a sustainable food system

A sustainable, equitable, healthy, and resilient food system brings a diverse array of social and economic benefits to Wellington. Here are a few of those benefits.

Economic development: Wellington’s food businesses are an essential part of our local economy. Food entrepreneurs bring new business ideas and opportunities into our city.

Social and cultural value: Sharing food is a way to build community connections and share culture.

Urban resilience: In a city-wide emergency, our food supply routes may be compromised. Emergency food supply plans are a key component of our city’s resilience.

Health outcomes: Eating more healthy food can increase the lifetime and well-being of our residents.

Climate change and sustainability: The food system contributes up to 30% of global carbon emissions. By promoting a more sustainable food system, we can save carbon and support sustainable food producers.

Stages of the food system (clockwise): production, processing, distribution, consumption, and waste recovery.
Stages of the food system (clockwise): production, processing, distribution, consumption, and waste recovery.