9th world conference on localized agri-food systems – Balancing Food Heritage, Healthy Diets and Planetary Resources

Call for papers 

The European Research Group SYAL, and the University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD) invite you to propose papers for the 9th world conference on localized agri-food systems (SYAL). The conference will be organized by the Centre for Transdisciplinary Development Studies (CETRAD) of the University of Trás-os-Montes and alto Douro and held in Vila Real, Portugal on the 16-17-18 November 2020.

The news challenges faced by the global food production system, with the need to protect the environment and promote sustainable development, are an opportunity for alternative and localized agri-food systems. The potential contribution of localized agri-food systems to rural development by by activating local resources, promoting economic development, social cohesion and counter-acting the demographic impact of agricultural modernization, has also increased their political relevance. Research has addressed various aspects of the relationship between SYAL and food quality such as geographical indications, as well as territorial, organizational and cultural issues, but there are still many unanswered questions and theoretical gaps to fill.

Papers on all topics related to localized agri-food systems are welcome, including production approaches, consumers’ behavior,  food heritage strategies, alternative and sustainable food systems, food innovation, the role of institutions and local organizations, markets, gastronomy, health and nutrition challenges, and the relationship with territorial development.