Transition to circular food systems: a study of stakeholders in five brazilian municipalities

The circular economy (CE) proposes a development model that favors economic growth combined with the rational use of natural resources and the reuse of waste. To mitigate food insecurity and gas emissions, CE principles can be applied to urban food systems. This study addresses how stakeholders can influence the development of the circular economy to create more sustainable and equitable urban food systems. The research analyzed qualitative data collected with management teams from the cities of Rio Branco (AC), Santarém (PA), Recife (PE), Maricá (RJ), and Curitiba (PR) to analyze municipal governance and identify good practicesaligned with the development of policies and programs to promote circular food systems. The results suggest that the change to circular food systems requires the qualification of local technical teams, quality management, a systemic vision of food, and multi-level governance, in addition to the ability to connect food and nutritional security programs with the aim of minimizing the generation of waste and maximizing the use of healthy foods. The research contributes to advancing the governance of urban food systems and provides input for improving local public policies aligned with environmental sustainability and food sovereignty in cities.