Networks for the aggregation and distribution of local and regional produce were commonplace only a century ago, but many were dismantled during the process of economic globalization. One group that’s been trying to bring theirs back is the Belgian Transition Initiative, Liége en Transition. In 2013, they helped establish Ceinture Aliment-Terre Liégeoise (CATL), “The Liége Food Belt.” Since then, CATL has woven together a powerful network of 15 local food cooperatives, including several farms and grocery stores, organizations dedicated to preserving agricultural lands and sharing farm machinery, a bicycle delivery service, two bakeries, two wineries, and a brewery.
Don Hall
The Long View