Food Frontier, Australia's advocate for alternative protein industries, is pressing Federal and State politicians and decision-makers to overhaul the country's food production, distribution, and consumption systems. This move, they argue, is critical if Australia is to meet its ambitious climate goals and maintain its position as a global food leader, says Simon Eassom, CEO and Executive Director of Food Frontier. (pictured below)
"Australia must transform its food systems if it is to achieve its climate change targets and remain a global food leader. Alternative protein industries are a critical part of any food systems transformation." says Simon Eassom. He adds, "In this report to governments, Food Frontier explains why transforming our systems of food production, consumption, and distribution makes economical, public health, and environmental sense, and how failing to act could result in Australia missing out on market opportunities and falling behind in the global arena."
The fact-based report underscores the urgent need for an holistic approach to food systems transformation, highlighting how the current global food system contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and incurs massive hidden costs in health, social, and environmental sectors. It points out the vulnerabilities of food systems to climate change, including the impact on productivity and farmers' livelihoods.
Australia's efforts towards 2050 net zero targets through sector by sector decarbonisation are acknowledged, but the report argues these actions alone are insufficient to ensure the long-term viability of agricultural production and food security in the face of growing global food demand and climate challenges.
Food Frontier recommends a comprehensive plan led at the federal level to promote the growth of domestic alternative proteins, which includes establishing government taskforces, co-investing in infrastructure, and incentivising sustainable agrifood industries. These steps, it argues, are essential for Australia to capitalise on the immense opportunity to become a world leader in sustainable protein production and supply.
By embracing alternative proteins and implementing a transformative food systems policy, Australia can not only meet its climate change objectives but also bolster its economy, improve public health, and ensure food security for generations to come.
For more information DOWNLOAD THE ENTIRE REPORT HERE
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