There are many layers to the food sector within a city's economy, from the Food produced locally to the food distribution, the foodservice sector, and all the side sectors relying on these industries. The impact of this mega-sector can be monitored through figures such as employment or growth.
It is how we have looked at the food sector for decades. However, in 2021, our perception of Food has drastically changed. The tons of potatoes produced are no longer the sole indicator. Food will always remain an important sector that will provide economic growth and jobs to citizens.
But today, economic monitoring is shifting to include quality assessment and any additional added value that the activity can bring at the local level. More and more business models are reviewed with consumers willing to pay the fair price and entrepreneurs looking to reduce the intermediaries to reduce costs and control quality.
What are the keys to success for this Boost Recipe from Cali to Chicago, Hong Kong, and Lisbon? How can a city successfully activate the proper mechanisms to ensure that the local partners take ownership of the magic of circular economy in its holistic approach? How can the essential informal sector of Food integrate this great city project?
An entire day of the conference has been dedicated to this issue, addressed through key-note speeches, a roundtable, and a collaborative workshop. So, together, participants joined forces to build a Boost Recipe collectively for a regenerative local food Economy:
Aine MORRIS, Founder, Bristol Food Union
Elizabeth MOURA AFFONSO, Regional Coordinator for Circular Development, ICLEI
How city food actors play a crucial role in Cali's economic development with local food entrepreneurs:
Oriana GARCES, Communication Director, Asocaña, Agroindustrial Sugarcane Sector
Johana VILLADA CAMELO, Designer for Artesanias de Colombia
Cristina NÚÑEZ, CEO Gastrotours
Martha JARAMILLO, Chef & Restaurant Owner
(See below for a selection of speeches)
Following the morning's inspiration and discussion, participants were invited to participate in a world café workshop to discuss
the food sector's challenges and opportunities to develop the local economy. The exchanges have highlighted the different ingredients a city can use to boost a virtuous economic food sector and inspire all Délice members: