A mangrove metaphor for sustainable food systems centres diversification as the root of human and planetary health

Abstract

Mangroves comprise diverse species that exhibit unique adaptations allowing them to thrive in harsh coastal environments in continual flux. Inspired by mangroves, we present a knowledge-to-action framework for conceptualizing sustainable food systems. We posit that human and planetary health are best sought through processes of diversification across multiple root systems to sustain a plurality of desired outcomes. The mangrove metaphor highlights that processes of diversification, which are empirically observable, measurable and reflexive to contemporary needs and contexts, can address food system polycrises and support transitions that benefit people and the planet.