Does glocalism work? Identifying spatial (mis-)matches between the local demand for and local production of legumes in Europe

While there is a large demand for legumes in Europe, supply currently depends on the import of large quantities mainly from South America. With regards to soy bean meal for instance, EU is 5% self-sufficient compared to 79% for rapeseed meal. In recent decades, so called ‘glocal’ food movements have, with increasing reverberation – and only more so since the COVID-19 crisis, advocated the advancement of localized food chains of production and consumption of various crops. Increasing European legume production would contribute to a sustainable future for European agriculture with greater crop diversity in agrarian landscapes, and higher carbon storage and nitrogen fixation. It would also stimulate an efficient global distribution of labour and fair trade.
In this study we investigate the potential of ‘glocal’ legume food chains in Europe. We identify spatial (mis-)matches in local production of and demand for legumes in Europe using spatial analysis. Maps for potential legume production are based on modelled yields of various legume types for an expert selection of European land systems. Maps for actual legume demand are based on spatial indicators for human consumption and animal feed using national and European statistics for legume consumption.
Our results are a first audit of the potential for localized legume food chains in Europe. The identified spatial (mis-)matches will show the possible alignment of legume production and their consumption in terms of animal feed and human consumption. Based on these findings, we will recommend several science-policy pathways to improve this alignment, and with that, help facilitate the transition to a sustainable agricultural future in Europe.