The power of policy – how to put sustainable food on the public plate

Governments buy a lot of food. From office canteens to schools and the military, they influence markets and diet. Government procurement could be a practical way forward to reducing emissions from food. Sustainable meals are also healthier, reducing other costs, and increasingly demanded by citizens. Focusing on government's power as a customer could also be a tactical way to make progress, less controversial than banning things. It could improve returns for sustainable producers and suppliers. And subnational governments are just as important buyers, innovators and policy makers as much as federal government. Key questions to be addressed will include the following: How are states and other governments buying better food? How can we build the public and producer appetite for such action? What are the positive roles which major food suppliers can play? What is the best route to driving international, large scale impact? This session is hosted by Climate Group.