Sustainable Gastronomy Day 2024 Observed on 18th June

On June 18th, we observe Sustainable Gastronomy Day, a day dedicated to promoting sustainable practices in the world of gastronomy, or the art and study of food and cuisine.

What is Sustainable Gastronomy?

Gastronomy refers to the local food and cooking styles of a particular region. Sustainability, on the other hand, is the practice of using natural resources in a way that can be maintained without harming the environment or depleting them.

Sustainable gastronomy combines these two concepts by focusing on cuisine that takes into account the origins of ingredients, how food is grown, and how it reaches our plates. It emphasizes the use of locally sourced, seasonal, and environmentally friendly ingredients, as well as traditional cooking methods that minimize waste and protect our planet.

The UN’s Efforts for Sustainable Gastronomy

The United Nations plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable gastronomy through various initiatives and organizations:

1. UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) and FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) collaborate with member states, UN organizations, and civil society to raise public awareness about sustainable gastronomy’s contribution to sustainable development.
2. UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network, established in 2004, promotes best practices and partnerships in creative fields, including gastronomy. As of 2024, 49 cities have been designated as Creative Cities of Gastronomy.
3. UNESCO also encourages the use of clean energy in local restaurants and raises awareness through TV food channels, gastronomy shows, and food cultural exhibitions.
4. The FAO promotes green culture diets that are not only healthy but also sustainable, encouraging countries to incorporate sustainability into their dietary guidelines.

The Significance of Sustainable Gastronomy

In 2016, the UN General Assembly designated June 18th as Sustainable Gastronomy Day, recognizing gastronomy as a cultural expression linked to the world’s natural and cultural diversity.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature loss, and pollution, sustainable gastronomy has become more relevant than ever. By celebrating seasonal ingredients, supporting local producers, preserving culinary traditions, and protecting wildlife, we can contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet.

On Sustainable Gastronomy Day, let us embrace the rich diversity of global cuisines while ensuring that our culinary practices nourish both our bodies and our Earth.