Summary
Bianca Minotti, an expert in food policy and governance, emphasizes the importance of local food policies in shaping sustainable food systems. During a discussion in Milan, she explains that food policy encompasses a broad range of issues, from production to waste management, and aims to view food as a systemic entity rather than in isolated sectors. Minotti highlights the role of local governments in addressing food-related challenges, such as school meals, by encouraging collaboration across departments to improve food quality and promote local sourcing.
Minotti also addresses the complexities of engaging various stakeholders in food policy discussions, noting the need for inclusivity and effective communication among diverse groups. She advocates for a participatory approach where community members, farmers, and local businesses contribute their insights to policy-making, ultimately fostering a more holistic understanding of food systems.
Looking ahead, Minotti stresses the significance of critical thinking and collective action in driving change within the food system. She encourages individuals to engage with their communities and question their food choices, asserting that meaningful transformation requires collaboration rather than isolated efforts. By fostering dialogue and understanding among different stakeholders, Minotti believes that society can work towards a more equitable and sustainable food landscape.
Show Notes
In the middle of Milan at Cascina Cuccagna, a 17th-century farmhouse, I sit down with Bianca Minotti. Bianca is a food systems governance and policy expert working at EStà, an independent organisation that combines research, education, and consulting to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge, public policy, and active citizenship. In this episode, Bianca and I talk about all things food policy, including what it is, how it works and how it impacts the food system that that we engage with every day. To find out more about EStà, visit http://assesta.it/en/ or follow them on instagram @esta_economiaesostenibilita.
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