Climate change is accelerating, and immediate action is needed to slow down its impacts. The food system, which contributes to nearly 30% of all greenhouse gas emissions, is a major player in this global challenge. Unhealthy diets, often characterised by lower intake of fruits, vegetables, and wholegrains and higher intake of meat, not only harm the environment through increased greenhouse gas emissions and resource use, but also contribute to non-communicable diseases such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes.

Both Germany and Scotland are actively working towards environmentally sustainable food systems. In 2022, Germany presented the ‘Path to the Federal Government’s Nutrition Strategy’, which aims to promote healthy and sustainable dietary patterns and resource-friendly approaches. Similarly, Scotland has passed the Good Food Nation Act, which plans to improve food outcomes for health, environmental sustainability, and economic development.

In alignment with these governmental strategies, this research project firstly aims to develop potential food policy scenarios. Then, leveraging Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) models, we will simulate how these policies affect consumer food purchasing behavior, incorporating market dynamics and consumer preferences. Finally, health, environmental, and economic impacts associated with the changed behaviors will be quantified using microsimulation modeling, enabling a comprehensive assessment.

By examining the complex interplay between policy, market forces, and consumer preferences, this research seeks to identify key drivers and barriers to the adoption of sustainable diets. The findings will inform targeted policies and interventions that effectively promote sustainable food consumption patterns, ultimately contributing to climate change mitigation and public health improvement.