What Does Growth Mean to Us at Shropshire Good Food Partnership?

When we hear the word growth, it’s easy to think of “more” — more production, more profit, more consumption. But at Shropshire Good Food Partnership, and within the Marches Real Food and Farming Network, we see growth differently.

For us, growth is not about “bigger at all costs”. It’s about resilience, regeneration and deeper connections between people, land and food. It’s about building thriving communities, restoring ecosystems and ensuring everyone has access to good, fair, sustainable food.

Here’s what growth means to us — and what it should mean for a sustainable food system in the Marches.

More Local, Less Global

We believe growth starts close to home. That means producing more of our food locally, rooted in the landscapes of the Marches. By supporting horticulture and regenerative farming, we reduce our reliance on fragile global supply chains. Local food production gives us fresher produce, lowers our carbon footprint and strengthens local economies.

Growth means relocalising our food system — bringing it home.

Supporting Growers, From Gardeners to Farmers

Food producers are at the heart of resilience. Growth means supporting them in numbers, knowledge and confidence. From allotment gardeners and new entrants to established farmers, we need to nurture the next generation of growers while valuing the experience of those already feeding us.

When producers feel supported and connected, we all benefit.

Good Food, Everywhere

Growth also means raising awareness of what “Good Food” really is. Not just calories, but nourishment, fairness and sustainability. By making good food more visible and easier to access, we can build healthier diets, stronger communities and fairer economies.

Good Food is for everyone — and everyone should know where to find it.

We’re All Food Citizens

Food is not just a commodity — it’s a relationship. Growth means recognising ourselves as food citizens, not just consumers. That means valuing the farmers, producers and communities who put food on our plates, and building systems based on trust and reciprocity.

When we see ourselves as citizens, we all share responsibility for shaping a better food system.

Stronger Local Food Businesses

For local food to thrive, producers need routes to market. Growth means more farm shops, markets, co-ops, cafes and restaurants that prioritise local produce. Strengthening these businesses keeps food pounds circulating locally and ensures farmers receive fair value.

Local businesses are the backbone of our food economy. Supporting them is supporting ourselves.

Nothing Wasted, Everything Valued

In a truly sustainable food system, waste becomes resource. Growth means shifting from throwaway culture to circular food systems. Composting, redistribution and waste reduction keep nutrients in the soil, cut costs, and build resilience.

Every peel, crumb and leftover has value — if we let it.

Food & Climate: Know the Impact

Growth also means carbon literacy. Understanding how our food choices affect the climate empowers us to make better ones. Shorter supply chains, seasonal eating and regenerative farming all cut emissions and restore ecosystems.

Knowledge is power — and in this case, knowledge reduces carbon.

Resilient Together

A resilient food system is one that can withstand shocks, from pandemics to supply chain crises. Growth means building distributed networks that can adapt quickly, ensuring no one goes hungry in times of need.

Resilience isn’t built alone — it’s built together.

Everyone Has the Right to Grow

Growth means everyone having the chance to grow their own food. The “Right to Grow” movement calls on councils to support community gardens, allotments and public land access. Growing food empowers individuals, strengthens communities and deepens our connection with nature.

Everyone should have the right to plant, tend and harvest.

Cooking Builds Community

Food is about more than fuel. Growth means rebuilding cooking skills — not just for nutrition, but for joy, conviviality and connection. Sharing meals fosters wellbeing, reduces isolation and strengthens community ties.

Cooking is a skill for life — and a tool for togetherness.

Growing the Next Generation

Growth means investing in the next generation of food citizens. Schools are hubs for food education, skills and resilience. By teaching children and families how to grow, cook and eat well, we set the stage for lifelong habits that nourish health, community and the planet.

The future of food starts in the classroom and the playground.

For us, growth is about resilience, regeneration and connection — not exploitation. We are building a food system that is good for people, place and planet.