Food and Sustainability in the Twenty-First Century: Cross-Disciplinary Perspectives

Sustainability is a major problem in food production, and this volume brings new perspectives from international scholars working in social, cultural, and biological anthropology, ecology, and environmental biology. It provides a global outlook on sustainability issues, with case studies appealing to those working in public sector agencies, NGOs, consultancies, and other bodies focused on food security, human nutrition, and environmental sustainability.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 238 pages
Publication date: 10 March 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Sustainability is a pressing issue in the realm of food production, requiring a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach. This volume, brought together by international scholars from various fields such as social, cultural, biological anthropology, ecology, and environmental biology, offers a fresh perspective on the challenges we face. By adopting a cross-disciplinary framework, the book explores sustainability issues from local, regional, and continental angles, providing a global outlook. The case studies presented in this volume are particularly relevant to professionals working in public sector agencies, non-governmental organizations, consultancies, and other organizations dedicated to food security, human nutrition, and environmental sustainability.

The significance of sustainability in food production cannot be overstated. The world's population is rapidly growing, and with it, the demand for food is increasing. However, our current food systems are not sustainable, relying heavily on intensive agriculture, excessive use of natural resources, and environmental degradation. This has led to a range of environmental and social problems, including climate change, deforestation, soil erosion, water scarcity, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity.

To address these challenges, a multidisciplinary approach is necessary. Sustainability requires a holistic understanding of the complex interactions between social, cultural, economic, and environmental factors that shape food production and consumption. It requires a consideration of the long-term impacts of our actions on the planet and the people who depend on it.

This volume brings together a diverse range of perspectives and expertise from international scholars working in social, cultural, biological anthropology, ecology, and environmental biology. The chapters in the book cover a wide range of topics, including food systems, agriculture, nutrition, health, and environmental sustainability. Each chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of knowledge and the challenges facing food production and consumption.

One of the key strengths of this volume is its cross-disciplinary framework. The chapters are organized into four sections, each focusing on a different aspect of sustainability. The first section explores the social and cultural dimensions of food production and consumption, including issues such as food security, food justice, and cultural heritage. The second section focuses on the ecological aspects of sustainability, including the impact of agriculture on biodiversity, soil health, and water resources. The third section explores the economic aspects of sustainability, including the role of markets, trade, and subsidies in shaping food production and consumption. The fourth section focuses on the environmental aspects of sustainability, including the impact of climate change, pollution, and waste on food production and consumption.

By adopting a cross-disciplinary approach, this volume provides a comprehensive and integrated understanding of sustainability issues in food production. It offers a range of solutions and strategies for promoting sustainable food systems, including sustainable agriculture, food waste reduction, and sustainable nutrition. The case studies presented in the book
volume are particularly valuable, as they provide real-world examples of successful initiatives and interventions that have promoted sustainable food production and consumption.

In conclusion, sustainability is one of the great problems facing food production today. This volume brings together a diverse range of perspectives and expertise from international scholars working in social, cultural, biological anthropology, ecology, and environmental biology. By adopting a cross-disciplinary framework, the book provides a comprehensive and integrated understanding of sustainability issues in food production. The case studies presented in the volume are particularly valuable, as they provide real-world examples of successful initiatives and interventions that have promoted sustainable food production and consumption. It is essential that we take action.

ISBN-13: 9781800739161