Workshop: NEIGHBOURHOODS OF RESILIENCE: Local Action for Food Security and Preparedness
In an era of geopolitical uncertainty and climate change, food security and national self-sufficiency have become critical pillars of civil preparedness. This workshop explores how urban environments can be transformed from passive consumption zones into productive landscapes that strengthen a city's total resilience.
Hosted by TEAL in collaboration with UK Urban AgriTech and Nordic Edge Agritech Cluster , this session brings together producers, technology developers, and policy makers to design operative models for neighbourhood-based food supply. We move from vision to strategy, focusing on how local food production can serve as a vital component of a resilient society.
What to expect
This collaborative session focuses on identifying the synergies between urban infrastructure and sustainable food systems. Participants will engage in a strategic design exercise to:
· Assess Urban Potential: Explore how underutilized urban areas and existing resource flows (such as excess energy and water) can be repurposed for productive use.
· Build Social and Technical Frameworks: Identify the necessary collaboration models between citizens, technology providers, and local government to ensure long-term viability.
· Strengthen Preparedness: Discuss how neighborhood-based production increases a region's "civil resistance" and local food autonomy.
The Innovation Journey
This workshop is a key milestone in a larger strategic initiative for Rogaland. The insights and models developed here will be further matured and presented during the What’s Growing 2026 conference (June 11), focusing on market realization, regulatory frameworks, and national implementation.
Who should attend?
· Municipal and regional planners involved in emergency preparedness and urban development.
· Property developers and architects looking for sustainable and "nature-positive" building strategies.
· Technology providers and entrepreneurs within the agritech and circular economy sectors.
· Stakeholders dedicated to strengthening the food value chain in the Nordic region.
Facilitators
The workshop is facilitated by TEAL, specialists in social innovation and agricultural business development, with expert analytical support from UK Urban AgriTech (UKUAT).
NB! This workshop requires either a full conference ticket to Nordic Edge Expo, or the workshop ticket. Both sold here: https://www.nordicedgeexpo.org/tickets