The report emphasizes the often-overlooked role of urban food actors in driving food system transformation and seeks to ignite a global public-private collaboration to establish a circular economy for food. As an affiliate project of the World Economic Forum’s Platform for Accelerating the Circular Economy (PACE), Cities and Circular Economy for Food aligns with broader efforts to create sustainable urban food systems. The report is part of Project Mainstream, a CEO-led global initiative developed by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and the World Economic Forum, aimed at scaling business-driven circular economy innovations.
The report explores key themes that define the transition toward a circular economy for food, beginning with the challenges of the current linear food system, which leads to significant waste, inefficiencies, and environmental degradation. It examines the potential of cities as catalysts for change, highlighting how urban food actors ranging from policymakers and businesses to consumers can reshape the way food is produced, distributed, and consumed. The report delves into regenerative agricultural practices that restore ecosystems, reduce waste, and enhance biodiversity, while also addressing the economic and policy mechanisms needed to support circular food models. Additionally, it focuses on innovations in food design, such as nutrient recovery and alternative proteins, as well as the role of technology in optimizing supply chains and reducing loss. Ultimately, it presents actionable strategies for collaboration between governments, businesses, and civil society to accelerate the adoption of circular food systems worldwide.