January 2025 - Carolina Farm Trust

27 Jan, 2025

Reimagining Food Systems: A Path to Health, Sustainability, and Equity

By Siobhan Norbeck|2025-01-27T16:53:02+00:00January 27, 2025|Food Equity, Food Systems, Sustainability|0 Comments

The global food system is one of humanity’s greatest achievements and challenges. It feeds billions but often at the cost of environmental health, economic stability, and social equity. A recent groundbreaking study has revealed that transitioning to a sustainable food system could unlock $10 trillion in benefits annually. At Carolina Farm Trust, we believe these findings underscore the urgency to act now to reshape our food systems and ensure they benefit people, the planet, and future generations.

The Hidden Costs of Our Current Food System

Our existing food systems generate immense hidden costs. According to the Food System Economics Commission, these costs—including environmental degradation, health impacts, and biodiversity loss—amount to $15 trillion annually. Agriculture alone accounts for more than 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions, pushing us toward a dangerous 2.7°C of warming

Let’s Talk About Food Systems: Building a Sustainable Future Together

By Siobhan Norbeck|2025-01-13T16:13:54+00:00January 13, 2025|Food Equity, Food Systems, Sustainability|0 Comments

The term “food system” encompasses the complex web of activities involving the production, processing, distribution, consumption, and disposal of food. Understanding this system is crucial, as it directly impacts our health, environment, and communities. At Carolina Farm Trust (CFT), we are dedicated to strengthening local food systems in the Carolinas, ensuring they are sustainable, equitable, and resilient.

Understanding Food Systems

A food system involves every step food takes from farm to table, including:

Production: Growing crops and raising livestock—the foundation of food systems. This stage includes everything from small family farms to large industrial operations.
Processing: Transforming raw ingredients into consumable products, such as turning wheat into bread or milk into cheese.
Distribution: Transporting food to markets, stores, or directly to consumers. This stage often involves complex logistics that impact food accessibility.

Developing a New Food System: Bridging the Gap Between Farms and Communities

By Siobhan Norbeck|2025-01-07T14:10:12+00:00January 7, 2025|Advocacy, Food Equity, News|0 Comments

The way we grow, distribute, and access food in America is deeply flawed. While some enjoy an abundance of fresh, healthy options, many communities—especially urban and rural areas—struggle with limited access to nutritious food. This disparity isn’t just about food; it’s a symptom of a larger system that prioritizes profit over people, sustainability, and health. At Carolina Farm Trust (CFT), we believe it’s time for a change.

The Problem: A Broken Food System

In the United States, food deserts—areas where residents have limited access to affordable and nutritious food—are prevalent. According to the USDA, over 19 million Americans live in food deserts, and many of these areas are in urban centers like Charlotte. Compounding this issue, small and mid-sized farms, which play a vital role in providing fresh produce, face increasing challenges due to market competition, lack of resources, and climate pressures.

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Monthly Archives: January 2025