Nurturing sustainability: My reality and research experience with Bristol Good Food 2030

Moyinoluwa Elizabeth Aladetuyi writes the latest Bristol Good Food 2030 story. Moyinoluwa is a research intern from the University of the West of England who has collected and analysed data on urban growing groups in Bristol to help create awareness and knowledge on the inclusivity and diversity of these projects.  

Introduction

My recent research experience with Bristol Good Food 2030 (BGF2030) opened my eyes to the great possibilities of sustainable food systems in a world contending with the pressing need for sustainable practices. I had the honour of taking part in this innovative research project as part of my mission to understand sustainable food systems.  

Joining BGF2030 as a researcher was like stepping into a world where possibilities and progress converged. A remarkable aspect of the project’s work was its emphasis on community involvement. 

Our research aimed to assess how the project’s principles were being implemented and the extent to which they were influencing the community’s food landscape. We conducted online surveys to gather insights from a diverse range of community-growing participants in Bristol. These interactions highlighted the significance of community-driven initiatives in fostering sustainable change.  

As my time with Bristol Good Food 2030 ended, I realised that I had transformed myself. What began as a research endeavor had evolved into a personal mission: a commitment to spreading the message of sustainable food systems, fostering change, and inspiring others to act. The movement not only equipped me with knowledge but also improved my communication skills. 

This experience was seamless because I had a very understanding supervisor with whom I reported and had catch-up meetings who gave me a lenient timeline to start and round up the final report while I was also having my first-hand experience as a first-time mom. I’d love to express heartfelt gratitude, as those working on the project didn’t make me feel like this factor was a challenge all through my last trimester, until I finally gave birth to my bundle of joy and experienced the ups and downs of motherhood. 

Key takeaways

My research experience with Bristol Good Food 2030 left me with several key takeaways: 

• Community Empowerment: Local communities play a vital role in driving sustainable change. When people are engaged and empowered, they can collectively create transformative shifts in the food system. 
• Holistic Approach: Addressing food sustainability requires a holistic approach that encompasses various stages of the food cycle, from production to consumption. Bristol Good Food 2030’s multi-pronged strategy demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach. 
• Education and Awareness: Raising public awareness and education on the benefits of sustainable food choices are critical stages in driving change. This research carried out by Bristol Good Food 2030 will aid in promoting public awareness and knowledge about altering attitudes and behaviours. 

Conclusion

These research initiatives not only address the pressing issues of food security and environmental sustainability but also foster a sense of community and empowerment among their participants. By engaging individuals from diverse backgrounds, Bristol Good Food 2030 has successfully created a platform for dialogue and collective action, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility towards our food system. Such initiatives are crucial in shaping attitudes and behaviours towards more sustainable practices, and their success serves as an inspiration for other cities and communities to follow suit.  

By encouraging collaboration and knowledge-sharing, Bristol Good Food 2030 has not only brought people together but also empowered them to take part in community-growing activities and make informed choices about their food consumption. This inclusive approach has not only strengthened the local food system but also instilled a sense of pride and connection within the community, driving further positive change. 

The project proved that a sustainable food system is a tangible reality that can be supported and cultivated through regenerative agriculture, community engagement, and novel distribution strategies. As we work together to confront the difficulties of our day, these stories serve as beacons of hope, illuminating the route to a more sustainable future for our planet and future generations.  

As I reflect on this enriching journey, I am reminded that the path to sustainability begins with the choices we make today. My journey with Bristol Good Food 2030 has reinforced the idea that every individual, every action, and every choice matters. Are you ready to be a part of sustainable change? Bristol Good Food 2030 has shown me that you certainly can be. Let’s cultivate a brighter, more sustainable future together, one step at a time. 
 
If you would like to read Moyinoluwa’s report, please email hello@bristolgoodfood.org and we can send a copy to you. 

In a recent thought-provoking webinar titled ‘How Can the Food Sector Be More Diverse?’, experts from various corners of the food industry in Bristol gathered to discuss the challenges and opportunities in creating a more inclusive and diverse food sector. The panel discussion was hosted by Bristol Food Network as part of Feeding Bristol’s Food Justice Fortnight. Read a report on this blog about the event and watch back the webinar online.