Groningen, Ghent & Grenoble - Cities Supporting the Protein Transition
During the Spring I embarked on a series of trips to cities deeply engaged in the protein transition movement, each offering unique perspectives and approaches to this pivotal shift in our food systems. Let me take you on a journey through Groningen, Grenoble, and Ghent, shedding light on their inspiring initiatives.
Groningen
My travels began in Groningen, where I had the privilege of meeting Kirsten de Wrede, an elected Alderman responsible for the 'Protein Transition' portfolio. She's set to remain in office for at least 2.5 years, during which several significant food policy actions will be implemented. These include banning meat advertising, promoting nature and sustainability education for children, encouraging seasonal consumption, engaging art students to convey the message of protein transition and launching workplace wellbeing initiatives.
What struck me most was the Westpark Living Lab, a remarkable example of a grassroots-driven food policy initiative. This physical site includes an education centre, a children's vegetable growing area, an organic market garden with an alternative economic model, a sustainable housing community, beehives, a community café, and a forestry project. It's a testament to empowering communities to shape food policy from the ground up.
In addition to these local efforts, positive agricultural changes are taking root in the region, aligning with the Netherlands' ambitious goal to halve agricultural greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, a commitment that has sparked protests and the rise of the populist 'farmer-friendly' political party.
Grenoble
My next stop was Grenoble-Alpes Metropole (GAM), a consortium of municipalities in France. GAM's participation in an 'inter-territorial' food project since 2014 exemplifies a holistic approach to the protein transition, considering both environmental and social justice aspects.
Grenoble itself has woven the food transition into its identity, earning recognition as 'Green Capital of Europe' and a Milan Pact Award recipient. The city serves around ten thousand meals daily, with a strong focus on balance and sustainability. They offer weekly vegetarian meals, source over 50% of their food organically, reduce plastic packaging, and use low-emission vehicles for food delivery.
Ghent
My journey culminated in Ghent, Belgium, where I attended the EUROCITIES WG Food Meeting. Ghent has a rich history of food policy innovation. Their Food Strategy, launched in 2013, includes pioneering concepts such as 'Veggie Thursdays,' which has been replicated globally. The city promotes plant-based meals through cooking classes and workshops and supports sustainable food businesses.
Ghent is deeply committed to climate action. They've signed the Covenant of Mayors, Cool Food Pledge, and Glasgow Food and Climate Declaration, all aiming to reduce emissions through sustainable food practices. Their three-pronged food strategy focuses on a short, sustainable food chain, food for everyone, and no food waste.
The 'Ghent Green Bowl,' their local protein strategy, aims to increase plant-based protein consumption, with associated goals to support sustainable proteins and producers. The city is actively involved in the Horizon 2020 project, 'School Food For Change,' and is also encouraging dialogue between supermarkets and citizens.
Looking Ahead
These cities offer a glimpse into the approaches that cities are taking to enable a protein transition. While progress is undeniable, challenges persist, including reactionary political movements and regulatory changes. As we approach the final year of the Food Trails project, we'll revisit these cities to assess the sustainability of their policies and gather insights that can inform future efforts.