Birmingham Food System Strategy: A Path to Sustainability and Health

Posted On November 8, 2023

Dr Justin Varney- Director Of Public Health

cover photo for Birmingham food podcast Breaking Bread about the Birmingham food system strategy with director of public health Dr Justin Varney

Listen to Breaking Bread Birmingham food podcast episode with Director Of Public Health Dr Justin Varney and hear about the new Birmingham food system strategy. Press play on the player above. Alternatively, listen on your favourite podcast app, and select from the list on this LINK

Welcome To Breaking Bread Dr Justin Varney

Welcome to another incredible episode of Breaking Bread the Birmingham Food Podcast, where we delve into the fascinating world of culinary arts and meet the extraordinary individuals shaping the city’s gastronomic landscape. In this week’s episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with Birmingham City Council Director of Public Health Dr Justin Varney. Birmingham, a city with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant community, is embarking on an extraordinary journey towards transforming its food system. We’ll dive deep into the Birmingham Food System Strategy, an ambitious eight-year approach to creating a sustainable and thriving food system for the city.

The Blueprint for Change: Birmingham Food System Strategy

Imagine a city where everyone has access to nourishing food, where the food system operates sustainably, and where local communities thrive. The Birmingham Food System Strategy is precisely that vision. Developed through three years of collaboration with various partners and citizens, this strategy is a comprehensive plan that addresses the multifaceted world of food.

picture of the regenerative food system part of Birminghams new food system strategy

Birmingham Food System Strategy- A Whole System Approach

What sets this strategy apart is its whole system approach. It’s not just about ensuring people have access to food; it’s about optimising the entire food system. This encompasses everything from where and how we source our food, to farming practices, logistical efficiency, education, food distribution, cost, availability, and even addressing the problem of food waste. Dr Justin Varney emphasised that it’s a holistic strategy that considers the role of every stakeholder and how the food system affects them.

Enabling Radical Change Locally

One of the primary goals of the Birmingham Food System Strategy is to bring about radical change at the local level. By emphasising community engagement and citizen participation, the strategy aims to ensure that all Birmingham residents, regardless of their background or location, have access to nutritious and affordable food.

Birmingham Food System Strategy- Sustainability and Economic Growth

Sustainability isn’t just about the environment; it’s also about economic sustainability. The strategy recognises the importance of local food businesses and the role they play in Birmingham’s economic growth. Supporting these businesses can create jobs, stimulate economic activity, and contribute to a thriving community.

Cover of the Birmingham Food System Strategy Booklet from the department of public health

Get Involved!

During our conversation, Dr Justin Varney emphasised that this is a strategy from the people, for the people. To make the Birmingham Strategy a success, community involvement is crucial. Whether it’s volunteering, supporting local businesses, having your say or participating in awareness campaigns, everyone can play a part in building a better food system for Birmingham.

The Birmingham Food System Strategy is a testament to the city’s commitment to a sustainable, healthy, and thriving food system. It’s a holistic approach that recognises the intricate web of connections within our food system and the role of every individual, organisation, and business. As residents of Birmingham, it’s up to us to join this transformative journey and work towards a more nourishing and vibrant future for our city. Let’s come together and make Birmingham a better place to eat, live, and thrive.