Food Security and Climate Change in Sweden
Short description
This research examines the relationship between food security and climate change in Sweden, focusing on how escalating environmental change and emerging global tipping points may affect the resilience of Swedish food systems. It investigates how climate-related risks, including large-scale systemic disruptions, could increase vulnerability at national, community, household, and individual levels.
About the research
Climate change may affect both Sweden’s food supply and people’s access to sufficient food. This research examines how climate-related risks, including large-scale systemic disruptions, could increase vulnerability at national, community, household and individual levels.
Particular attention is given to how everyday adaptation practices may contribute to resilience under conditions of growing climate uncertainty. By analysing both structural risks and local responses, the research seeks to understand how food security can be safeguarded in the context of a changing climate.
One part of the project examines how Swedish food security could be affected by a potential collapse of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, known as AMOC. AMOC is a major system of ocean currents in the Atlantic Ocean and plays an important role in the climate of Northern Europe.
Aim of the research
The research aims to increase understanding of:
- how climate-related risks may affect the vulnerability of Swedish food systems
- how individuals and households can adapt to improve food security
- how a potential collapse of AMOC could affect Swedish food supply and preparedness
- possible alternatives or complements to conventional agriculture
- how social work can contribute to long-term food security and resilience.
How the research is conducted
The project uses several methods to explore different dimensions of food security and climate change.
Why this research matters
Climate change does not affect everyone equally. People already experiencing poverty, exclusion or other forms of social vulnerability may have fewer opportunities to prepare for, adapt to or recover from disruptions to food systems.
Climate scientists provide essential knowledge about changes in the physical climate system. Social science and social work can help translate this knowledge into an understanding of its effects on individuals, communities and societies.
Social work contributes knowledge about vulnerability, poverty, exclusion, climate injustice and the unequal effects of environmental change. Including these perspectives can help ensure that climate responses reflect people’s lived realities and that vulnerable groups have both a voice and agency.
Podcast: Social Work Now
In Social Work Now, Stephanie Rost talks with guests about current issues in social work, including climate change, sustainability and the challenges facing the profession.