The Plymouth Food Project
A city-wide food project in Plymouth is set to be a shining example for the rest of the UK on sustainable food sourcing in urban areas and aims to help make Plymouth Britain's first 'Sustainable Food City'.
As part of this initiative The Plymouth Food Project is supporting local producers to supply fresh fruit and vegetables into Plymouth’s schools and hospitals. The project is led by the Soil Association and The Barefoot Partnership Ltd and involves a city-wide partnership of public sector organisations including Plymouth City Council, University of Plymouth and NHS Plymouth.
Plymouth's Food Charter, launched in February this year, aims to promote a thriving economy, health and well being, resilient and close knit communities, life long learning and skills, and a reduced eco footprint. Over 30 Plymouth-based organisations are now signed up to help deliver these aims, these include; Transition Plymouth, Riverford Organic Vegetables, National Marine Aquarium, Gribble’s Butchers, Tamar View Fruiterers and Stiltskin Theatre Company.
The food and drink sector employs nearly 250,000 people in the South West and makes up 8% of total economic output. Food and drink is the largest manufacturing sector, largest retailing sector and is a key tourist attraction, accounting for one third of visitor spending.
This is a truly pioneering project which could provide the blue print for sustainable cities across the UK. It's a winner for everyone involved. Not only do the residents of Plymouth get more fresh, tasty, good quality local food on the menu, the increase in the amount of locally produced food and drink sold into Plymouth’s public sector is great news for a thriving local economy and the local farmers, growers and food businesses who supply the produce.
Traci Lewis of the Soil Association, coordinator of Plymouth Food Project
Visit www.foodplymouth.org to sign up to the Food Charter and find out more.
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www.soilassociation.org