Science for policy
Political decisions play a crucial role in the transition to sustainable food systems. One of SLU Future Food’s missions is therefore to support evidence-based policymaking by ensuring that research-based knowledge reaches decision-makers.
As societal challenges become increasingly complex, the need for scientifically informed decisions is growing. Through its science for policy activities, SLU Future Food works to make research on sustainable food systems accessible and relevant to policymakers, public authorities and other key stakeholders.
Our ambition is to provide the right knowledge to the right people at the right time.
Horizon scanning and policy monitoring
Through continuous horizon scanning, we identify emerging issues and trends related to sustainable food systems. We monitor public debates and follow ongoing and upcoming policy processes to better understand developments that may affect the food system in both the short and long term.
Policy briefs and reports
SLU Future Food regularly publishes policy briefs and reports that synthesise current research and provide evidence-based insights on issues related to sustainable food systems.
Our publications are aimed at policymakers, experts and other decision-makers across the food system, including representatives from public authorities, industry and civil society. They are often complemented by seminars, workshops and other activities that facilitate dialogue between research and practice.
Dialogue and knowledge exchange
Dialogue is a central part of our science for policy work. We create opportunities for researchers, policymakers and other stakeholders to exchange knowledge and perspectives through meetings, webinars, workshops and roundtable discussions.
Drawing inspiration from Wageningen University & Research, we are currently exploring the potential for structured dialogue processes that can facilitate knowledge exchange and foster dialogue between researchers, policymakers and other stakeholders.
Almedalen Week
Almedalen Week (Almedalsveckan) is Sweden’s premier annual political summit and democratic forum, held every summer in Visby on the island of Gotland. Almedalen Week is an important arena for dialogue between research and policy. SLU Future Food participates regularly through seminars, panel discussions and collaborative events focused on the future of sustainable food systems.
Feeding Your Mind
Feeding Your Mind is SLU Future Food’s podcast series on sustainable food systems. The podcast presents research and perspectives from SLU and beyond, covering topics such as food production, aquaculture, meat consumption, food waste, preparedness, agroecology and consumer choices.
Meat: The Four Futures
Meat: The Four Futures was a collaborative project between the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, the University of Oxford and Wageningen University & Research. The project explored alternative futures for meat production and consumption and aimed to support more constructive and informed discussions about the role of meat in sustainable food systems. The project has resulted in a podcast series and a workshop format.