Sustainable Gastronomy Day

Sustainable Gastronomy Day History

Sustainable Gastronomy Day is an annual celebration dedicated to promoting the benefits of sustainable farming, cooking, and food consumption. The observance highlights the importance of culinary practices that respect ecosystems, promote biodiversity, and contribute to the community's well-being. Emphasis is placed on fostering conscious choices for food production and consumption, minimising food waste, and utilising locally grown and ethically sourced ingredients.

The United Nations General Assembly first proclaimed Sustainable Gastronomy Day in 2016, recognising the need to create awareness around eco-friendly cooking practices and responsible resource use. In the context of the United Kingdom, this observance holds significant relevance due to the nation’s interests in mitigating climate change and reducing the environmental impact of food systems. The UK Government's 25 Year Environment Plan exemplifies these concerns, outlining numerous strategies for sustainable agriculture and enhancing natural resources. By participating in Sustainable Gastronomy Day, citizens of the UK contribute their efforts to a global movement towards a healthier planet and a more sustainable future for all.

The customs and activities associated with Sustainable Gastronomy Day in the UK can vary widely. However, typical practices include attending educational workshops or seminars on sustainable cooking, engaging in farm-to-table dining experiences at local restaurants, visiting farmers' markets to select locally sourced ingredients, or participating in community events that promote environmental stewardship. Many people in the UK also take this opportunity to explore traditional British recipes with a focus on seasonal, organic, and ethically sourced produce. Sustainable Gastronomy Day takes place on the 18th of June each year, providing a focal point for both individuals and organisations to celebrate eco-friendly practices in the culinary sphere while championing a greener, more sustainable food culture.

Sustainable Gastronomy Day facts

• According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), about 1/3 of all the food produced in the world is either lost or wasted every year.
• UNESCO recognizes 30 food and drink-related traditions as part of its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
• Sustainable gastronomy encourages the utilization and promotion of locally grown or locally produced food products to reduce carbon footprint.
• Located in the UK, the Millennium Seed Bank is the largest wild plant seed bank globally and aims to conserve plant species for future generations. By preserving plant biodiversity, the seed bank supports sustainable food systems by maintaining a diverse range of crop species.
• The UK has seen a rise in the number of zero-waste stores and markets, where customers can buy food items in bulk and use their own containers. This shift helps reduce packaging waste and promotes the use of locally sourced, sustainably produced ingredients.

In the News and Trending in the UK for Sustainable Gastronomy Day

Top things to do in the UK for Sustainable Gastronomy Day

• Discover 6 tips on how to reduce food waste.
• Visit your local farmers market. By buying locally you can help support farmers and your community.
• Watch a film to learn more about gastronomy in the United Kingdom. Here are our top picks:
  1. Farm to Table: The British Food Revolution (2018)- This documentary looks at the rise of the farm-to-table movement in the UK, highlighting British chefs and farmers working together to promote local, sustainable food.
  2. The Trip (2010)- A hilarious comedy starring Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon, who embark on a culinary tour of the UK. Though not technically a documentary, it provides an entertaining look at UK gastronomy, with a showcase of several beautiful restaurants and dishes.
  3. The London Foodies (2012)- This documentary follows a group of passionate food lovers in London as they explore new flavors and experiences, showing how the city's diverse and cosmopolitan culinary scene has evolved.
• Read a book to learn more about sustainable gastronomy in the United Kingdom. Here are our suggestions:
  1. Edible Cities: A Guide to Urban Farming and Sustainable Gastronomy in the United Kingdom by Angus Lupton
  2. Farming for the Long Haul: Planting the Seeds of a Sustainable Agriculture Revolution in the United Kingdom by Michael Foley
  3. Ethical Eating: Tangible Solutions for Making Sustainable Food Choices in the United Kingdom by Simon Dawson