Development of a Theoretical Framework for Local Food System Resilience and Empirical Research

Prof. Miki Yoshizumi

College of Gastronomy Management

Locations of Impact

    Japan|Malaysia|New Zealand|Philippines|Thailand|United Kingdom|Vietnam|

Co-researchers

  • Dr. Tran Thanh Duc

    Hue University of Agriculture and Forestry

    Vietnam
  • Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Tung

    Faculty of Architecture, Hue University of Sciences, Hue University

    Vietnam
  • Dr. Hoang Hai

    Japan Center, The University of Danang

    Vietnam
  • Dr. Kieu Thi Kinh

    University of Science and Education, The University of Danang

    Vietnam

Outline of collaborative research

This research aims to establish a theoretical framework and conduct empirical studies on local food system resilience to ensure food security during emergencies, such as natural disasters or COVID-19-related restrictions. The project focuses on developing disaster preparedness strategies that support multicultural communities, including the growing number of foreign residents.

Drawing on lessons from Japan, the research seeks to address food system challenges in disaster-prone regions like Japan, Vietnam and Thailand. By analyzing these international contexts, the study aims to create adaptable solutions for food resilience that can be applied across Asia and beyond.

Key methods include collecting and analyzing foundational data on food supply systems during disasters and global best practices in food system resilience. This involves classifying case studies based on factors such as geographic conditions and community involvement. Additionally, interviews with residents, local organizations, and other stakeholders help assess resilience, disaster responses, and food supply mechanisms in affected communities.

By combining theoretical insights and practical case studies, this research contributes to the development of robust, community-based food systems that enhance resilience and preparedness for future crises.

Papers, etc.

International conference presentation
  • Ueda S. and Yoshizumi M., A study on measures to reduce food waste in restaurants through collaboration with local organizations: A case study of Kousei Sangyo Corporation in Kagoshima, Japan, August 18, 2022, International Conference of Asian-Pacific Planning Societies 2022
  • Shinoda Y. and Yoshizumi M., Preliminary Insights into Food Procurement: A Case Study of Households in Flood prone Central Vietnam, August 23, 2024, International Conference of Asian-Pacific Planning Societies 2023
Domestic conference presentation
  • Unno K. and Yoshizumi M., The potential of the vegetable bus for local production and local consumption of local vegetables: a case study of Kusatsu vegetables in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, December 11, 2022, 2022 Annual Conference on Environment and Information Science
  • Takana A. and Yoshizumi M., Study of effectiveness measurement method for development of wellbeing tourism, December 11, 2022, 2022 Annual Conference on Environment and Information Science
  • Shinoda Y. and Yoshizumi M., Research on Local Food Systems for Disaster Risk Reduction, December 18, 2023, 2023 Annual Conference on Environment and Information Science
  • Sato A. and Yoshizumi M., A Study on Participants' Awareness and Behavioral Changes Through Rural Experience Programs, December 18, 2023, 2023 Annual Conference on Environment and Information Science
Paper
  • Yoshikoshi M. and Yoshizumi M., The Potential of Online Farmers' Markets: Through the Initiatives of Grow, Journal of Ritsumeikan Gastronomic Arts and Sciences, Vol. 7, p.309-318, 2022 (in Japanese)
  • Sato A., Hori T., Ueda T. and Yoshizumi M., The Potential for Creating Related Populations through Rural Experience Programs: Through the Shiga Hometown Support Team Initiative, Reports of the City Planning Institute of Japan, 22(3), p.501-504, 2023 (in Japanese)

Symposia, seminars, etc.

  • International Workshop on Local Food Resilience System, March 27, 2023, Biwako-Kusatsu Campus, Ritsumeikan University
Post-workshop research exchange meeting at the Kyoto venue
International workshop at Biwako-Kusatsu Campus of Ritsumeikan University

Future prospects/aspiration

We aim to advance our research by fostering international collaborations to build resilient local food systems capable of addressing global challenges. By sharing insights from Japan, we plan to expand our studies to include Malaysia, the Philippines, and other regions affected by climate change and natural disasters. Through partnerships with academic institutions, local governments, and community organizations, we aspire to develop adaptive strategies that enhance food security and disaster preparedness in multicultural settings. By addressing shared challenges, our goal is to contribute to sustainable and equitable solutions that benefit diverse communities worldwide, especially those most vulnerable to crises.

Miki Yoshizumi, Ph.D.

College of Gastronomy Management
Research Theme

Food system resilience

Specialties

City/Rural Planning, Community Development, Rural Revitalization, Environmental Learning, Education for Sustainable Development

Link