Created through collaboration between local authority staff, the University's Countryside and Community Research Institute (CCRI), the Gloucestershire Food and Farming Partnership and Climate Leadership Gloucestershire (CLG), the eight-point action plan is presented in a new report.

The recommendations form part of the Gloucestershire Food and Farming for Net Zero research project, in which council staff identified practical actions to reduce emissions from food systems – one of the key areas highlighted in the UK's latest carbon budget for achieving its net zero targets.

Dr Aimee Morse, project lead at the CCRI, commented: "This research shows local authorities' potential to innovate in the food and farming sectors and sets out clear next steps for partners in supporting the transition to net zero."

The research found that all seven councils in Gloucestershire are keen to connect food and farming policy with their climate, health and wellbeing goals. However, a review of existing climate strategies revealed limited reference to food and agriculture. The new report suggests this is an area where councils could play a more coherent role in supporting innovation across the food sector.

Cllr Sebastian Field, CLG Chair, and Cabinet Member for Environment at Gloucester City Council, said: "Climate Leadership Gloucestershire is pleased to have been able to support this important research. It provides a clear way forward for local authorities to play a more direct role in supporting our local food businesses and farmers, and enabling us to work together to create healthier and greener food systems."

Priority projects will be selected from the action plan for further development, with research partners continuing to collaborate on implementation. Potential areas of focus include direct support for farmers in transitioning to greener practices; promoting healthy and sustainable food through planning policies; and improving the sustainability of food served at council-run events and festivals.

Gloucestershire Food and Farming Partnership's Dr Benjamin Dent added: "The farming and food sectors can contribute to solving many environmental, social and health challenges, and already provide over 50,000 jobs in the county.

"I am delighted that our local councils are working together to create climate-friendly solutions, which both support local farmers and make delicious food affordable and readily available. The Partnership is committed to continuing to work with them as they implement the ambitious recommendations."