Organic food: good for farmers, workers, climate, and the environment

On Friday, 15 November, from 9:15 to 13:00, the European Economic and Social Committee in Brussels will host a pivotal event focusing on the benefits of organic food and the critical role of public procurement in advancing sustainable practices. This event, organised by Organic Cities Network Europe, the EESC and the Associazione per l’agricultura biodinamica, and in partnership with ICLEI, Buy Better Food, France Urbaine and IFOAM will bring together representatives from cities, national governments, and institutions to discuss the future of organic farming and its impact on farmers, workers, the climate, and the environment.

Organic Food: A Path for Sustainability

The event will highlight the numerous benefits of organic food for various stakeholders:

• Farmers benefit from healthier soils, reduced exposure to harmful chemicals, and more stable, sustainable agricultural practices.
• Workers in the organic sector are shielded from the hazards of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
• The climate benefits from the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration through organic farming methods.
• The environment gains from improved biodiversity, water conservation, and reduced pollution.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of organic farming, an important milestone that will be celebrated at the event. Over the past century, organic agriculture has evolved into a vital component of sustainable food systems across Europe and beyond.

European Dialogue on Organic Territorial Strategies

The event in Brussels will serve as a platform for European cities and institutions to engage in dialogue around organic territorial strategies, with a focus on public procurement. Public procurement plays a key role in driving demand for organic products, fostering regional and local food systems, and ensuring that the food served in public institutions aligns with sustainability goals.

The discussions will reflect on the recent successes of healthy food initiatives across cities like Bremen, Salzburg, Nuremberg, Munich, Florence, Paris, Seeham, Copenhagen, Riga, Liège, and more. These initiatives have demonstrated the positive outcomes of collaboration between local governments, bio-regions, and national entities, driving healthier and more sustainable food systems for all.

Key Milestones and Manifestos

Two significant manifestos will be highlighted at the event:

• The Food Policy Coalition Initiative, which calls for mandatory minimum criteria for school canteens. This initiative has already been endorsed by 30 European local governments, reflecting widespread support for healthier, more sustainable meals for children.
• The Freeing Up Public Procurement Manifesto, signed by over 80 cities and facilities in France and Belgium, along with associations in Spain and Estonia, promotes greater flexibility and sustainability in public food procurement policies.
  In addition, a petition for healthy school meals across Europe has garnered over 93,000 signatures, underscoring the public’s desire for better nutrition for children and sustainable practices in schools.

Simultaneous Interpretation Available

To foster an inclusive discussion, simultaneous interpretation in French, English, German, and Italian will be available, ensuring that participants from across Europe can engage fully in the dialogue.

Join this critical event to explore how organic food systems can shape a more sustainable, equitable future for all. Let’s work together to build stronger regional food systems that benefit not only our health but also the planet.