The impact of COVID-19 on alternative and local food systems and the potential for the sustainability transition: Insights from 13 countries

• DOI: 10.1016/j.spc.2021.06.022
• Publication Date: 2021-06-23T05:58:08Z
• Authors: Gusztáv Nemes; Yuna Chiffoleau; Simona Zollet; Martin Collison; Zsófia Benedek; Fedele Colantuono; Arne Dulsrud; Mariantonietta Fiore; Carolin Holtkamp; Tae-Yeon Kim; Monika Korzun; Rafael Mesa-Manzano; Rachel Reckinger; Irune Ruiz-Martínez; Kiah Smith; Norie Tamura; Maria Laura Viteri; Éva Orbán
• Keywords: Scope (computer science); Mainstream; Social system

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a major stress test for the agri-food system. While most research analysed impact of on mainstream food systems, this article examines how alternative and local systems (ALFS) in 13 countries responded first months crisis. Using primary secondary data combining Multi-Level Perspective with social innovation approaches, we highlight innovations adaptations that emerged ALFS, these changes have created or supported sustainability transition production consumption systems. In particular, show combination technological innovation, greater citizen involvement, increased interest policy-makers retailers enabled ALFS to extend their scope engage new actors more sustainable practices. Finally, make recommendations concerning support ALFS' upscaling embrace opportunities arising from crisis strengthen transition.