Flying food - responsible retail in the face of uncertainty
The question of air freight has raised the temperature of the ‘food miles’ versus ‘fair miles’ debate in the UK. Greenhouse gas emissions from flying are pitted against benefits for poverty alleviation in poorer countries that produce fruit and vegetables for the UK market.
On 4th April we held a workshop with civil society groups who have shaped the public debate on air freight. The aim was to find practical approaches to dealing with this dilemma that could be agreed by environment and development groups in spite of differences in their values and priorities. The workshop was supported by funds from the Network for Social Change.
The workshop identified recommendations for responsible retail and policy approaches to air freight that could be widely agreed by civil society groups. We have since met several major UK retailers to discuss the findings. We will publish a report of the workshop, alongside guidance for retailers, at a launch event on Wednesday 21st May.
To find out more please email Paul Steedman.
Work in food or farming? Join our Business Forum.
Think critically. Keep informed. Read our magazine.
Print this page