Food systems transformation: designing and supporting pathways

Food systems transformation is critical for addressing the world’s most pressing challenges, including hunger, malnutrition, environmental degradation, and climate change. At Wageningen Social & Economic Research, we support this transformation through in-depth research into the underlying mechanisms and solution pathways. By providing evidence-based insights, practical tools, and capacity building support, we help policymakers and change agents in the food system to make informed decisions and work together with universities and NGO's to co-create knowledge and drive effective change processes towards fair and just food systems.

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Why is the transformation necessary?

The transformation of food systems is critical to addressing the world’s most pressing challenges. Traditional food systems contribute to global issues such as hunger, malnutrition, and exclusion, while also exacerbating environmental degradation.

For lower and middle income countries, the urgency to transform is heightened by interconnected factors such as climate change, which worsens food insecurity and crop yields; rapid population growth, which increases pressure on agricultural systems; and ongoing health and poverty crises that limit access to nutritious food and deepen social inequalities.

Globally, there are several other major challenges that further highlight the need for food system transformation, including:

  • Hunger, malnutrition, and the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which are becoming major health concerns.
  • The unsustainable pressure placed on natural resources and ecosystems due to current agricultural and food production systems.
  • The necessity of system-wide change to meet global sustainability targets, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including goals to end hunger, promote health, and combat climate change.

By leveraging in-depth research, and co-creating knowledge within the regional context, organisations can make data-driven policy decisions and process improvements that drive cost-effective change. Our insights and actionable knowledge help change agents in the food system develop practical strategies for achieving sustainable and equitable food systems, particularly in lower and middle income countries, where transformation is most needed.

Co-designing and supporting transformation

At Wageningen Social & Economic Research, we understand that the transformation of food systems requires a collaborative and evidence-based approach. We work closely with policymakers and decision-makers in a process of co-creation, combining scientific research with practical insights. This ensures that the transformation is not only effective but also tailored to the specific needs of each context.

Our research provides the foundation for developing frameworks and solutions that guide the transition towards sustainable and resilient food systems. By leveraging our expertise and research-driven insights, we help organisations navigate food systems transformation pathways, design effective interventions, and implement strategies that contribute to global food system transitions.

Incentives and impact

From insights to action

At Wageningen Social & Economic Research, we work closely with policymakers and change agents in the food system to translate research into practical, real-world solutions. By combining in-depth analysis, evidence-based strategies, and co-creation, we ensure that the transformation of food systems is not only grounded in solid scientific research but also tailored to real-world contexts. Our collaborative approach fosters actionable, sustainable solutions that are designed to gain support from all stakeholders involved, facilitating effective and scalable change.

  • Data-driven approach: Scientifically founded and applicable.
  • Focus on sustainability and equity: Addressing both environmental and social impact.
  • Tailored collaboration: Translating research insights into practical advice and working together to develop solutions.
  • Facilitating processes and capacity development: Supporting the implementation and scaling of solutions.

Designing the food system transformation together

Together, we can work towards the global goals, as we explore food systems transformation pathways and seek actionable solutions. Contact us for tailored insights and evidence-based strategies to support the food system transition.