Every city a food growing city? What food growing schools London reveals about city strategies for food system sustainability

Abstract: Cities have emerged as leaders in food system innovation and transformation, but their 12 potential can be limited by the absence of supportive governance arrangements. This study examined 13 the value of Food Growing Schools London (FGSL) as a programme seeking city-wide change 14 through focusing on one dimension of the food system. Mixed methods case study research sought 15 to identify high-level success factors and challenges. Findings demonstrate FGSL’s success in 16 promoting food growing by connecting and amplifying formerly isolated activities. Schools valued 17 the programme’s expertise and networking opportunities, whilst strategic engagement facilitated 18 new partnerships linking food growing to other policy priorities. Challenges included food growing’s 19 marginality amongst priorities that direct school and borough activity. Progress depended on 20 support from individual local actors so varied across the city. London-wide progress was limited by 21 the absence of policy levers at the city level. Experience from FGSL highlights how city food strategies 22 remain constrained by national policy contexts, but suggests they may gain traction through focusing 23 on well delineated, straightforward activities that hold public appeal. Sustainability outcomes might 24 then be extended through a staged approach using this as a platform from which to address other 25 food issues