Climate change and population growth are putting the globe’s citizens in a fragile and tenuous situation, and unfortunately, the effects are most pronounced among the poor and disadvantaged. Those communities who previously relied on traditional farming practices are rendered powerless to the unpredictable and varying weather conditions. Meanwhile, traditional methods of food aid have done little to address malnutrition, an affliction which can only be truly remedied with locally grown fruit and vegetables.
Australia is not immune to this problem, with many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities being unable to access nutritious foods, due to the availability and affordability of produce. In 2012-13, 31% of Indigenous Australians in remote areas reported running out of food over the previous 12 months, compared to 4% of non-Indigenous Australians.
Food Ladder is our response to the crisis.
True to its mandate of developing local economies, since its inception, Food Ladder has consistently assisted communities around the world in establishing successful social enterprises.
- Food Ladder systems are five times more productive than traditional farming methods when operating at full capacity.
- Each Food Ladder system is designed to address the specific climate and food requirements of each individual community.
- Food Ladder projects address health, education and economic development outcomes through a multi-disciplinary approach in partnership with the local community. Programs include vocational training, STEM education and nutrition workshops.