What can comprehensive mapping of alternative food networks reveal about their sustainability claims?

Abstract

Alternative Food Networks (AFNs) are widely understood as responses to the sustainability crises of the conventional food systems. AFNs in Scotland also build upon long-standing local food traditions that predate these crises, yet little attention has been given to understanding the full landscape of AFNs. We provide a comprehensive inventory and analysis of AFNs in Scotland to quantify their scale, classify their diversity and assess their sustainability claims. Through desk-based data collection and GIS mapping, we identified 305 AFNs. Farm shops and farmers’ markets were found to be the most prevalent types. The results provide an evidence base for targeted food policy support.