Research activity at York recognises that the achievement of resilient global food security lies at the complex nexus of economic growth, resource demand, environmental sustainability and public health.

Research expertise

York is at the forefront of international research on food resilience and sustainability, answering emerging questions regarding agri-food supply chains and how one can enhance sustainability and resilience, given the challenges facing the nexus between food, climate, energy and water.

Key facilities

We harness the expertise of 24 researchers from five departments (Computer Science, Environment, Health Sciences, Politics, York Management School) and two centres (Institute for Effective Education, Stockholm Environment Institute at York) to examine resilience in the global food system.

Research capabilities

Novel interventions, practices and tools for behaviour change to help actors within the food system respond to complex challenges thereby supporting transformative changes in food systems to promote resilience, justice and sustainability. Working with a range of partners including; buyers (manufacturers and retailers), NGOs, producers (including smallholders) and other universities, we design new co-designed solutions for improved food security for all.

Three key research areas

1. Investigating how individuals, communities and institutions think and act in response to a changing global food system.
2. Understanding how food supply chain actors differ in their ability to respond to crises and stresses within international food supply chains.
3. Developing tools, models and frameworks which will help researchers and food supply chain actors resolve and respond to pressures facing food consumption, production and trade.

Local Theme Leader

The Theme Leader for Resilient Supply Chains is Dr Chris West.

Theme highlight project