> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://4revs.gitbook.io/handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://4revs.gitbook.io/handbook/chapters/food-futures/leadership-in-the-spotlight.md). # Leadership in the spotlight The city of Ghent in Belgium stands as a fantastic example of unparalleled innovation in the realm of sustainable food policies that don’t exist in silos, rather are connected and engage everyone (yes, everyone!) at the same time. A complex challenge such as fixing the food system needs multi-stakeholder solutions and a leader with the power to implement. In this case, the city (and the many committed public servants) is the fearless leader.\ \ In 2013, the journey began with the launch of the pioneering food strategy, Gent en Garde, in collaboration with a multitude of stakeholders. This initiative gave birth to the Food Council, a participatory policy body dedicated to steering Ghent towards a more sustainable culinary future. In recent years, the city's food policy underwent meticulous development, earning Ghent prestigious international awards, including the UN Award ‘Momentum for Change’, ICLEI’s transformative action award, and Eurocities Award 2021. The Food Council’s three core strategic objectives–cultivating a short, sustainable food chain, ensuring access to sustainable food for all, and combating food waste on a local scale–serve as a contemporary framework aligning with present challenges, acting as both a guide for Ghent's food policy and a metric for evaluating outcomes. Beyond theoretical underpinnings, the initiative demonstrates real impact from local citizens, businesses, and organizations actively contributing to the city's transformative journey towards a more sustainable food system. {% embed url="" %} One example of their success is known as the "Thursday Veggie Day" campaign, which significantly shaped dietary choices, resulting in 7% of the city's population adopting a vegetarian lifestyle—surpassing Belgium's average. Additionally, the provision of sustainable meals to over 4,500 students daily in public schools showcases the city's commitment, with 24% of these meals being organic and designed to limit animal protein to a maximum of 50%. Their impactful "Foodsavers” platform has efficiently redistributed 1,000 tons of food surpluses in just two years, benefiting those experiencing poverty. Ghent en Garde has brought significant change to the local food system. Over the years Ghent’s food policy has moved from launching small scale initiatives to bringing structural change. In essence, Ghent's commitment to sustainable food practices is not just a policy; it is a living testament to the power of collective action and individual responsibility in shaping a healthier, more sustainable future. ## Conclusion Most of us are probably aware by now that humans have transformed a vast part of the Earth’s land and resources to produce and distribute food around the world every single day. If we are to be successful in transforming our food system, we must be prepared to cooperate with both human and nonhuman living organisms. There are ways to produce food in a more sustainable and equitable manner. The important progress in this sector being made by diverse communities and brave businesses around the world is a testament to human ingenuity and resourcefulness. Ghent's policies represent an important idea: cities and their regions can become more connected and promote healthy and sustainable food value chains; consumers can find and support businesses and organizations that share their values. You don’t need to be an entrepreneur to take action. From all the chapters in this Handbook, rebuilding a local and sustainable food system is perhaps the most accessible to all. You can shape its long term future not only in your company or in your community, but you can even start in your family and friend circles.