Abstract:
The panel will address the critical issue of food sustainability in Northern Canada, highlighting the intersection of climate change and unique regional characteristics. It will explore challenges such as warming temperatures, droughts, and their effects on Indigenous agricultural practices. The discussion aims to develop locally crafted solutions aligned with cultural, geographic, and environmental contexts. By integrating traditional knowledge with innovative strategies, the panel seeks to enhance agricultural resilience and food security. Key topics include regenerative agriculture practices, food sovereignty and Indigenous knowledge, water resource management, and economic and policy frameworks, ensuring the resilience and sovereignty of Canada’s Northern populations.

Summary of Conversations

The panel explored northern food sustainability amidst climate change, emphasizing Indigenous knowledge and community-led solutions. Discussions highlighted the importance of place-based food systems, the impacts of climate change on traditional food sources, and the need to address food insecurity in northern communities. Panelists shared insights on historical ecology, community-based research, and the role of policy in supporting Indigenous food sovereignty. Challenges included dietary transitions among youth, infrastructure needs, and the complexities of balancing traditional food systems with market food systems. The conversation also touched on the importance of land sovereignty, the limitations of current programs like Nutrition North, and the need for culturally appropriate food solutions.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of Challenges

Here are the key insights and current challenges that were mentioned:

• Food insecurity remains a critical issue in many northern communities, exacerbated by climate change and historical policies.
• Traditional knowledge and Indigenous governance are vital for developing sustainable food systems.
• Current policies and programs, such as Nutrition North, may not always address the root causes of food insecurity and can sometimes undermine local food production.
• There is a need for a more holistic approach to food systems that considers cultural, economic, and environmental factors.
• Community engagement and self-determination are essential for creating effective and sustainable food solutions.
• Land sovereignty and protection are crucial for ensuring access to traditional food sources.
• The extractive legacy of academic research in the North needs to be addressed through participatory and community-led approaches.
• Limited infrastructure and resources hinder the development of local food production and distribution systems.

Recommendations/Next Steps

Here are some actions and strategies that were proposed to improve food security in Northern communities:

• Support community-driven initiatives and prioritize Indigenous-led solutions for food sovereignty.
• Shift funding towards people and community-based programs rather than solely focusing on infrastructure and equipment.
• Integrate country foods into school nutrition programs and other community settings.
• Develop policies that protect traditional food systems and promote land sovereignty.
• Promote knowledge sharing and mentorship programs to transmit traditional food-related skills and knowledge.
• Improve the supply chain and distribution systems for both market and traditional foods.
• Conduct research that is community-based, participatory, and respects Indigenous methodologies.
• Evaluate food security programs using metrics that are defined by the communities themselves.