Sustainable Diets and Biodiversity: Directions and Solutions for Policy, Research and Action. International Scientific Symposium, Biodiversity and Sustainable Diets United Against Hunger, FAO Headquarters, Rome, Italy, 3 5 November 2010.
It is time to face the evidence of a worldwide unsustainable food system. Its complexity makes it extremely fragile to any climatic, socio economic, political or financial crisis. Thus, we urgently need appropriate understanding and new strategies to really accommodate present and future population needs and well being. In that context, we need sustainable diets, with low input, local and seasonal agro ecological food productions as well as shortdistance production consumption nets for fair trade. Cultural heritage, food quality and culinary skills are other key aspects determining sustainable dietary patterns and food security. Nutrition education about appropriate food choices remains essential everywhere. It thus appears very urgent to profoundly change our food strategy and to promote fair, culturally appropriated, biodiversity based, ecofriendly, sustainable diets. Authorities should urgently assume their responsibilities by orienting and supporting the appropriate and sustainable foodstuff productions and consumptions in all parts of the world.