Summary
This global modelling study applies an integrated food and land system framework to evaluate how 23 food system measures—individually and in combination—contribute to simultaneous improvements in public health, environmental protection, social equity and economic outcomes to 2050. Although individual measures entail trade-offs, the authors demonstrate that combining all measures could avert 182 million life-years of annual mortality whilst nearly halving nitrogen surplus and mitigating poverty effects, with joint efforts across food and non-food sectors capable of meeting the 1.5 °C climate target.
UK applicability
The study's global modelling provides a systems-level evidence base for UK food policy integration, particularly regarding trade-offs between domestic environmental measures and international development. The findings support evidence-based prioritisation of combined measures over isolated interventions, though UK-specific pathway analysis would require disaggregated modelling of domestic food production, imports and dietary patterns.
Key measures
Annual mortality (life-years), nitrogen surplus, absolute poverty rates, greenhouse gas emissions, climate target feasibility
Outcomes reported
The study quantified the impact of 23 food system measures on 15 outcome indicators spanning public health, environment, social inclusion and economics through 2050. Modelling estimated effects on annual mortality, nitrogen surplus, poverty, and feasibility of achieving 1.5 °C climate targets.
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