'Ghent en Garde' is an important urban food policy initiated by the City of Ghent, Belgium, in 2013. Recognised as a 2019 UN Global Climate Action Award winner under the Planetary Health category, the initiative aims to create a sustainable, resilient, and equitable local food system. By strengthening short food supply chains, promoting sustainable consumption, and reducing food waste, Ghent en Garde addresses critical environmental and social challenges associated with modern food systems.    

The Problem

Modern food systems are significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, with agriculture and related activities accounting for up to one-third of global emissions. Simultaneously, food insecurity and waste remain pressing issues, with approximately 30% of food produced globally going to waste, while 800 million people suffer from hunger. Urban areas, as major centres of consumption, play a crucial role in addressing these challenges.  

The Solution

Ghent en Garde implements a multifaceted approach to transform the city’s food system:

1. Strengthening short food supply chains: By promoting local production and consumption, the initiative reduces the environmental impact of food transportation and supports local economies.  
2. Food waste reduction: The Foodsavers project redistributes surplus food to those in need, preventing waste and addressing food insecurity. Over two years, more than 1,000 tonnes of food were redistributed to over 57,000 people.  
3. Community engagement and education: Educational programs in schools promote sustainable food practices, including the development of community gardens and workshops for parents and teachers.
4. Promoting plant-based diets: Initiatives like ‘Thursday Veggie Day’ encourage residents to adopt vegetarian meals, reducing the city’s overall meat consumption and associated emissions.  

Impact and Success

Ghent en Garde has led to significant environmental and social benefits:  

• Emission reductions: Shorter food supply chains have cut emissions by an estimated 35.8% in the short term, with potential long-term reductions of up to 79%.  
• Food security: Redistribution efforts have provided nutritious food to a substantial portion of the city’s population, addressing both waste and hunger.  
• Cultural shift: The city’s promotion of vegetarian meals has increased the percentage of vegetarians to 7%, compared to the national average of 2.3%, and Ghent now boasts the highest number of vegetarian restaurants per capita in Europe.

Ghent en Garde exemplifies how integrated urban food policies can drive sustainability, reduce emissions, and promote social equity. Its success has inspired similar initiatives in other cities and highlights the critical role of local governments in transforming food systems.

For more information, visit the UNFCCC Ghent en Garde page.