About the network

The Circular Food Systems Network

The Circular Food Systems (CFS) Network is a network under the Global Research Alliance on agricultural greenhouse gases. The objective is to develop an active international network of researchers in the field of circular food systems, where knowledge can be shared and collaboration between research groups can increase the development and implementation of circular food systems to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture.

In circular food systems losses of raw materials in the production of biomass are kept to a minimum by pursuing a closed-loop in which all produced biomass is utilised to a maximum extent. It is a whole-system approach that looks at the individual parts of the food system as elements of an integrated entity. Such a food system approach is more than the sum of its parts as interaction between the different parts of the food system results in additional resource efficiency.

Circular Food Systems can contribute to reduction of GHG emissions and increased food security by increasing resource use efficiency (e.g., recycling of waste streams which reduces the need for inputssuch as land, water, fossil energy and nitrogen and phosphorus), and by mitigating the net greenhouse effect of emissions from CO2, N2O and CH4 during the different stages of the food systems both via direct mitigation interventions, such as reduction of methane emissions, and indirect mitigation interventions, such as through additional carbon sequestration in soils and biomass. The benefits resulting from circular food systems go beyond mitigation of GHG-emissions and food security, but may also include increased biodiversity, and development of opportunities for ecosystem services.

Activities
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  • Knowledge sharing & capacity building

    We advance knowledge sharing and build capacity by developing or financing case studies and research projects that turn real‑world insights into practical tools. We design learning materials, create evidence‑based resources, and support partners in applying new approaches in their own contexts.

  • Policy engagement

    We engage policymakers directly by convening focused dialogues and roundtables that surface priorities, challenges, and opportunities for action. Through these exchanges, we translate insights into concrete recommendations and practical guidelines that support evidence‑based decision‑making and strengthen policy implementation.

  • Collaborative research

    We drive collaborative research initiatives by actively facilitating partnerships between institutions, experts, and practitioners, ensuring that joint projects generate shared insights, stronger evidence, and practical solutions.

  • International Networking

    We strengthen international networking by running dynamic knowledge‑exchange programs that connect experts, students, and practitioners across borders. We create hands‑on learning opportunities through PhD collaborations, summer schools, hackathons, and by joining global conferences, enabling participants to share insights, test ideas, and build lasting professional relationships.

  • Communication and outreach

    We expand communication and outreach by running workshops and webinars that equip partners with hands‑on skills, and by maintaining momentum through newsletters and active social‑media engagement that keep our community informed and connected. We translate complex work into clear messages, highlight key achievements, and build visibility across digital platforms and stakeholder networks to ensure broad and sustained engagement.