Using Foresight for Food System Transformation

A Practical Guide for Policy Makers, Practitioners & Researchers

As the world faces mounting challenges, from climate change and biodiversity loss to malnutrition and economic inequality, transforming food systems has become an urgent global priority. “Using Foresight for Food System Transformation” is a comprehensive guide developed by Foresight4Food and the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub to help stakeholders apply foresight tools and thinking to drive meaningful, evidence-based food systems change.

The “Using Foresight for Food System Transformation” guide offers a comprehensive and practical resource for anyone involved in shaping the future of food systems with a robust toolkit of foresight methods specifically tailored to support transformational change in food systems. From scenario building and drivers of change analysis to strategy backcasting and systems mapping, the guide walks users through a step-by-step framework designed to help convene diverse stakeholders, foster inclusive dialogue, and collaboratively explore future scenarios that illuminate risks, trade-offs, and opportunities. Drawing on real-world case studies from countries like Kenya, Uganda, Bangladesh, and Jordan, it showcases how foresight has been successfully applied at national and sub-national levels to inform strategic decisions and align policies with long-term goals. Beyond tools and frameworks, the guide emphasizes the importance of systems thinking and participatory approaches, offering practical advice on how to engage stakeholders from across sectors; including government, civil society, academia, and the private sector, in a process that is grounded in evidence, encourages innovation, and builds a shared vision for resilient, equitable, and sustainable food futures.

Download the Using Foresight for Food System Transformation guide here.

The guide offers a structured, inclusive, and adaptable roadmap for using futures thinking to build sustainable, equitable, and resilient food systems at national and local levels. Here are some of its key features:

  • 4-phase Foresight Framework
  • 16 Participatory Methods and Tools
  • Sector-wide Use Cases & Implementation Pathways
  • Lessons from UN Food Systems Summit & National Pathways
  • Actionable insights for policy, investment, and innovation

The Foresight4Food Initiative also provides access to technical support, peer learning opportunities, and a vibrant global community working toward more sustainable, equitable and future-fit food systems.