@article{Queenan_Sobratee_Davids_Mabhaudhi_Chimonyo_Slotow_Shankar_Häsler_2020, place={Ithaca, NY, USA}, title={A Systems Analysis and Conceptual System Dynamics Model of the Livestock-derived Food System in South Africa: A Tool for Policy Guidance}, volume={9}, url={https://www.foodsystemsjournal.org/index.php/fsj/article/view/854}, DOI={10.5304/jafscd.2020.094.021}, abstractNote={<p>Global food production systems are currently under scrutiny, in particular the health, nutrition, and environmental impacts of livestock-derived food (LDF). Despite South Africa’s recent socio­economic transformation and increased per-capita LDF consumption, the triple burden of malnutri­tion persists. Policy responses to such complex problems often fail because of linear thinking with short-term goals. However, a systems approach helps identify root causes, feedback mechanisms, potential unintended consequences, and opportu­nities for integrated, durable solutions. Participa­tion in the systems-thinking process improves stakeholder understanding and buy-in. Our par­ticipatory workshop facilitated the development of a systems map for South African LDF, identifying key system elements, linkages, and nexus points. The latter included climate change, land access and management, livestock management and produc­tivity, farming systems, food safety, policy articula­tion, agricultural knowledge, and income. Based on these findings, and an overview of related litera­ture, we produced a conceptual system dynamics model of the LDF system. We identified key vari­ables and causal relationships, vicious and virtuous loops, system archetypes, conceptual stock and flows, and links to Sustainable Development Goals. The LDF system is complex and dynamic, with a dominance of commercial enterprises across agriculture and food retail, presenting barriers for small and medium-scale individuals. Other key elements relate to population growth and urbaniza­tion, land access, deregulation of international trade, climate change vulnerability, feed production limitations, and food safety. Our work provides a unique reference for policymakers, identifying the need for deep structural change, highlighting the possible unintended consequences, and thereby mitigating the risk of system destabilization.</p>}, number={4}, journal={Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Community Development}, author={Queenan, Kevin and Sobratee, Nafiisa and Davids, Rashieda and Mabhaudhi, Tafadzwanashe and Chimonyo, Michael and Slotow, Rob and Shankar, Bhavani and Häsler, Barbara}, year={2020}, month={Aug.}, pages={275–298} }