Analyzing Sustainable, Localized Food Production Systems With a Systematic Optimization Model

Abstract

Localized food production and sourcing is drawing increasing attention due to economic, environmental and health considerations. Yet significant challenges exist, such as how to effectively and efficiently map the localized supply and demand. In order to address this issue, we developed a framework that incorporates the population, dietary, and geographical information to map the potential foodsheds. The focus in this study is to minimize the total geographic distribution among the foodsheds. We also developed innovative protocols and metrics to analyze the foodshed localization of geographic areas. Data from Iowa are utilized to analyze and validate the optimization model. This study has the potential to be adapted to other regions.

Keywords:

• local food production
• sustainability
• population
• dietary
• geographical
• optimization

Acknowledgments

Funds for this project have been provided by the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture. Established by the 1987 Iowa Groundwater Protection Act, the Leopold Center supports the development of profitable farming systems that conserve natural resources. More information about the Leopold Center is available on the Web at http://www.leopold.iastate.edu or by calling the Center at (515) 294–3711.