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  • In Response to "The Omnivore's Delusion" Part 1
    Travis commented on the article | over 2 years ago
    In Response to "The Omnivore's Delusion" Part 1

    This article raises some really good points about the food production industry and "agri-intellectuals" push for sustainable food production. As a big supporter of local agriculture, it is helpful to hear arguments from the other side of the fence. I would like to emphasize the importance of planning cities so that local food production is sufficient for the population density of the city. Throughout my research on transportation, land-use planning is continually referenced as the keystone of a sustainable movement.


    When I read Greg's article, it dawned on me that there are options available to help curb the excessive price and distribution problem associated with local food production. Americans are ushered to believe that if you want to make a difference you have to stand up against corporate control and make decisions with our consumption patterns that are parallel with our values. It is commonly assumed that making these decisions in our lives means jeopardizing our savings. Through collective action we have the ability to support food production systems that can have larger scale effects.


    Take for example in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. I first read about Belo Horizonte in a book by Francis Moore Lappé called "Hope's Edge: The Next Diet for a Small Planet." The 4th chapter of the book highlights the actions taken by Belo Horizonte citizens. " 'We believe the status of citizen surpasses that of consumer' explains Adriana Aranha, the woman in charge of the many faceted activities..." (95, Lappé).


    What has Belo Horizonte done? "City Hall arranges public bidding for entrepreneurs to create markets on city-owned spots around the city. For this advantage, the seller has to sell the fruits and vegetables at a prices the city sets" (95, Lappé). How do they make a profit?? The city charges farmers almost nothing in rent for their prime market locations, the reduced price significantly increases demand and the middle-man is cut out of the equation (96, Lappé).


    This is just an example of one way, one city combated the problem of distribution and availability of quality, fresh, local food. Although agribusiness farmers are essential in this country, as Greg's article emphasizes, policy that supports development that benefits everyone can transform food systems. " 'Food Security' -having enough food to feed yourself and your family--is a human right, a right by virtue of being a citizen. If the market is shutting out people too poor to be consumers, they are still citizens. It's the government's duty to step up to the plate and correct for this 'market failure' " (95, Lappé).


     

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