Scientifically Informed Agri-Food Policy
Overview
An integrated and scientifically-informed approach to agri-food policy is crucial for transforming Hawaii's food systems to meet interconnected economic, social, ecological, and cultural goals. With Hawaii’s unique challenges of geographic isolation, dependence on imported food, and vulnerability to climate change, such policy must be rooted in evidence-based practices that address the complexities of the local food system. Scientifically-informed strategies enable decision-makers to develop policies that enhance local food production, improve food security, and create resilient food systems that support environmental sustainability and cultural preservation. Additionally, these policies can support economic growth by promoting local agriculture and grater food sovereignty, ensuring that food systems not only provide healthy food access but also uphold the traditional knowledge and practices of Native Hawaiian agriculture and foodways. By aligning policy goals across sectors, an integrated approach empowers Hawaii to build a food system that is resilient, equitable, and sustainable for future generations.
Projects
The Integrated State Food Policy Framework for Â鶹´«Ã½ guides the transformation of food systems by addressing food insecurity, public health, climate vulnerability, and biocultural restoration. It consolidates data and best practices to support sustainable agriculture, resilience, and alignment with the , evolving with research and community input.
advances Â鶹´«Ã½’s food system goals by establishing an Inter-agency Food System Working Group tasked with creating a comprehensive State-Level Food System Plan that aligns with the state’s priorities and is linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (). This resolution facilitates collaboration across state agencies to address food security, local food production, economic development, and environmental sustainability by integrating efforts, policies, and funding sources.
The Working Group’s Plan - - identified specific strategies to support local agriculture, enhance food security and public health, increased and support agri-food system education, and promote biocultural restoration, among other priorities. By coordinating state resources and initiatives the plan aims to create a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable food system for Â鶹´«Ã½.
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