Feeding the future: Integrated food systems for sustainable cities and communities

Date & time: 27 February 2026 | 09:00–10:00 (Bangkok time)
Location: Meeting Room G, United Nations Conference Centre (UNCC), Bangkok
Organized by: UN Food Systems Coordination Hub
In collaboration with: FAO | Milan Urban Food Policy Pact | RIKOLTO | Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI)
Registration: All participants who plan to attend the event in person must register via Indico: https://www.unescap.org/events/apfsd13.

Overview

Accelerating implementation of the 2030 Agenda requires a systems approach that places food systems at the centre of sustainable development. In Asia and the Pacific, rapid urbanization, shifting diets, climate risks and resource pressures are reshaping how cities and regions produce, distribute and consume food. With over 350 million people in the region still malnourished and more than one billion experiencing food insecurity, integrated urban and peri-urban food systems are essential for building resilience, improving nutrition and supporting sustainable cities. 

To respond, agrifood systems need to be reimagined through integrated, city-region approaches that connect food production, processing, logistics, consumption and waste management with urban planning processes such as land use, environmental management and food distribution systems. Urban agriculture can play a strategic role in this transition, serving as resilience infrastructure that supports progress on SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) when implemented with regenerative practices and supported by simple monitoring of local environmental conditions. Strengthening regular local production can also improve access to safe, nutritious food and reinforce everyday resilience for urban households.

This side event will explore how city-region approaches can connect food production, processing, logistics, consumption and waste management with urban planning and development. By strengthening links between municipalities, national governments and food systems stakeholders, the session will highlight how coordinated action can advance more inclusive, resilient and resource-efficient cities – supporting progress on SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) while generating co-benefits across food security, climate and livelihoods.

What to expect

Participants will hear country and city experiences from across Asia and the Pacific and exchange lessons on integrating food systems into urban development strategies. The event aims to strengthen collaboration across sectors and generate practical insights for advancing national food systems pathways through city-region action and partnerships.