Interventions that make the healthy choice, the easy choice
The general health of a population rests on food security. It is broadly understood that reduced access to fresh ingredients or prepared meals is a leading cause of lifestyle diseases such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and more. Factors such as disinvestment in public spaces, social isolation, and inadequate infrastructure worsen these challenges.
By examining the role of the built environment and community in shaping a neighborhood’s foodscape, Gehl supported clients in creating actionable solutions to improve access to healthy, affordable, culturally appropriate food for vulnerable groups and in disinvested communities. Gehl created a Foodscapes framework and toolkit through a cross-cultural approach, that could be scaled-up and applied to other communities with similar contexts. The framework uses a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods to understand the lived experience of accessing healthy foods.
Gehl’s people-first methodology ensured that solutions were specific to local conditions, shifting communities with different needs from lack of access and undernourishment to healthful routines. From local to global action, Gehl is helping cities find innovative ways to invest in people, programs and policies that foster resilient food systems, equitable access to good food and an enhanced quality of life.
