Is NYC Serious About a Sustainable Food System?

by David Orr · 2010-02-24 12:07:00 UTC
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Union Square Farmer\'s MarketLast week, Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer released a report with the intention of setting forth "a bold and comprehensive agenda that will spark systemic change in New York's regional food system." The report provides ten broad recommendations to address the health, economic, and environmental needs of New York City, and provides a framework to move the city toward a sustainable food system. Sure, the report is full of lofty rhetoric, but will it translate to meaningful change? I think it will.

The report, "FoodNYC: A Blueprint for a Sustainable Food System," includes these recommendations:

  • Promotion of local food production through the creation of a Citywide Urban Agriculture Program, including the facilitation of agriculture on city-owned property and rooftop greenhouses;

  • Better understanding of and coordination with the regional foodshed;

  • Increased access to healthy foods in all neighborhoods, including funding permanent infrastructure for indoor and outdoor farmers markets;

  • Comprehensive nutrition education in schools and improved school meals, including a Citywide Meatless Monday program; and

  • Creation of a Department of Food and Markets to coordinate the City's various initiatives.

As you can see, the report contains reasonable and attainable goals that would have a significant impact on the City's food system. If it's successful, it may also provide a strong model for cities and states across the country.

The timing is something of a perfect storm. Sustainable food is a signature issue for Borough President Stringer, and both the Mayor and the City Council have demonstrated their support. And with public awareness and interest around food issues growing rapidly, officials can benefit by coming out in support of strong action.

Many of the recommendations are long term solutions, but there are some potential quick wins that could cement support. Let's hope that's the case, because as Sinatra said, if you can make a sustainable food system in New York, you can make it anywhere. Or something like that, anyway.

Photo: ceiling

David Orr is a sustainable cook, writer and activist.
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