Abstract
Video link: Our people, our food, our planet: Sustainable food systems policy in the Pacific
 Pacific Island Countries and Territories are facing a health crisis with non communicable diseases (NCDs) currently accounting for more than 80% of deaths. In the 21st century, advances in health intervention and policy render this figure unacceptable. Multiple risk factors contribute to the NCD crisis; a leading driver being obesity due to changing dietary practices arising from the global food system. A system which is dominated by processed foods high in starch and sugars. This situation is compounded by changes in the natural and built environments relating to climate change. Tackling this issue is beyond the sole domain of public health and is, therefore, more suited to a planetary health approach. This paper applies a sustainable food systems approach to analysing NCD policy developments in the Pacific region. In particular, three domains of policy which impact diets in the Pacific are examined: food production, climate change and sustainability, and trade. It is argued that countering the NCD crisis demands a global multisectoral approach, with governments leading the way, to develop integrated policy and interventions that will secure the future wellbeing and protection of our people, our food, our planet.
Highlights
Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICT) are experiencing a health crisis
In examining how these interlocking domains contribute to the overall picture of diet in the Pacific, this review considers research from a variety of disciplines and sectors
The bans on some unhealthy meat products attracted a great deal of international attention with public opinion generally supportive (Gewertz, 2010; Thow, Swinburn, et al, 2010); many people felt that the ban, on its own, was not enough to stem the rising tide of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs)
Summary
Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICT) are experiencing a health crisis. The rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs)—cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancers and chronic respiratory disease—have soared in recent decades and account for more than 80% of all deaths in the region Underdeveloped infrastructure and climate change are eroding local production and food security within PICTs, making the NCD crisis a global concern.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
