Localizing SDG2 Zero Hunger through “Fair Food” in Australia

Abstract

In Australia, and elsewhere, community food networks such as urban gardens, community supported agriculture, farmers’ markets, organic cooperatives, food charities and “fair food” organizations are important civil society stakeholders who actively confront food system inequalities such as food insecurity and food waste. These organizations emphasize equitable access to food that is ecologically sustainable, healthy and fairly produced, exchanged and consumed (i.e. food justice). This differentiates them from mainstream food security approaches and provides a potentially progressive framework for thinking about alternative food futures. This paper presents a sociological analysis of community “fair food” initiatives in Brisbane, Australia as a means of expanding SDG2 Zero Hunger to encompass local priorities. Following the presentation of a broad typology of initiatives, the paper will analyze selected case studies in terms of their: (a) personal and collective visions for future food systems, and (b) activities and outcomes related to food justice and food access. How do these place-based narratives connect to global sustainability goals? Findings indicate that more equitable food access is pursued in missions and activities that seek to build and connect (a) values of food justice, sovereignty, citizenship, farmer-consumer solidarity, empowerment and community control of food systems, with (b) solving practical problems associated with local ecological food production, reduction or redistribution of food waste, providing lowcost food to vulnerable groups, and restructuring finance. Scaling up to influence policy and financing remains a key challenge. These initiatives demonstrate significant synergies between ecological, social and economic values that are central to localising the SDGs.