An initiative to develop 21st century regional food systems

(Jump-started by a US$10 billion federal stimulus COVID package)

Abstract

First paragraphs:

The design and development of a rejuvenated and re-created regional food system for the USA are necessary now. COVID-19 has effectively unmasked the fragility of the global industrial food system. The ensuing crisis has provided us with a rare opportunity to pause, reflect, and imagine a more resilient and sustainable food system—one that is more balanced and just, one that is capable of with­standing shocks and disruptions, and one that better provides for people’s health and community economic security as well as the planet’s well-being.

A nationwide network of regional food systems is not only possible; its development needs to be stimulated and accelerated, as inspired by the 2010 report “The 25% Shift” (Masi, Schaller, & Shuman, 2010). This report analyzed the 16-county Northeast Ohio region around Cleveland and the impact of meeting a quarter (25%) of all demand for its food from the region itself. . . .