The UK Research and Innovation Council has launched a call for funding with co-founder DEFRA to strengthen the resilience of the UK food system through a systems-based approach to address cascading risks to food supply and security. Recognising that the current JIT (Just-In-Time) food system is significantly exposed to external shock and stressors that undermine national food security, both in the short and long term. Growing geopolitical instability, global socio-economic and supply chain risks, and an increasing frequency and severity of sudden and chronic hazards, further exacerbate this risk. In response, there is a need to develop functional redundancy and increased diversity in the food system.
Projects must be interdisciplinary, and researchers must collaborate with at least one stakeholder, such as government, a business or a third-sector organisation. Applications are open until 19th March 2024.