To summarize, the main objectives of
Montpellier Métropole’s revised Agroecological and Food Policy (Politique Agroécologique et Alimentaire – P2A) are to strengthen agricultural resilience and food sovereignty in the area in order
to feed inhabitants healthily and sustainably, while mitigating the effects of climate, ecological, and food crises. The new policy was enacted by the Community Council on January 25.
Montpellier Métropole’s P2A program focuses on providing
healthy, local food to as many people as possible, while also supporting local agricultural and agri-food employment, and preserving the landscape, natural resources, and biodiversity – including the quantity and quality of water, soil, and air. It also seeks to limit greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to climate change, and contribute to social unity in the metropolitan area.
These aspects were all elaborated with Montpellier Métropole’s cities, as well as food and agriculture stakeholders. Agroecological and Food Policy was revised in 2021 with this same sense of partnership through
seminars and workshops during which the new guidelines were adopted.
The updated policy focuses on five main objectives: creating a territory that is agroecological; developing a sustainable and resilient food supply; giving all inhabitants access to quality food of their choice; disseminating knowledge and promoting innovation; and, lastly, setting up territorial governance regarding food and agroecology.
To implement related measures, Montpellier Métropole has approved a €30 million budget, including €10 million to acquire farm land, €12 million for investments in the
Montpellier Market of National Interest, and €8 million for operational programs.
Additionally, the policy’s recognition by French authorities as a
Territorial Food Project (TAP) was renewed in 2021. Moreover, with the
France Relance recovery plan aimed at reinforcing territorial actions to promote healthy, safe, sustainable, and accessible food for all by supporting TAP projects, Montpellier Métropole’s policy received €729,000 in government funding over two years for 28 actions undertaken by metropolitan authorities, five local cities, and six partners. The goal is to move towards an agroecological metropolis where local, organic, and high-quality food products are available to everyone.
