Food & the future : mapping food security for urban digital town

Abstract

Urban Digital Twins (UDTs) have huge potential to initiate change but are not yet mature enough to be useable since many aspects of cities, such as social fabric, still need to be integrated within the models. In response to this critique, this study investigates a subset of the social fabric: food security. Food systems are an integral part of the social fabric of cities, influencing community health, culture and identity. This study has a dual aim: firstly, to explore how the social fabric of a city can be mapped and classified to be digital twin ready and ultimately add to the UDT and secondly, to comment on the food security of Hatfield. The study will define food security in a specific taxonomy within Hatfield's context and set the foundation for the research methodology.This report falls within the pragmatic paradigm. Within a pragmatic paradigm, the research design is expansive and uses a mixed methodology that integrates quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods. The research methods include grounded theory, desktop research, GIS mapping, GIS analysis using comparative methodology, case studies and descriptive statistics. To support data analysis, ArcGIS and Web of Science were used as instruments for data collection and analysis. Hatfield is more food secure than initially believed, however, many possibilities exist to increase access. Since food security has four pillars, it is evident that Hatfield is food secure in some regards and food insecure in others. In terms of the availability of food outlets, Hatfield can be deemed food secure, whereas food security decreases in terms of nutrition. From the maps, two main concerns emerged: Lack of connectedness and lack of nutrition. Hatfield can be classified within the nuanced taxonomy as ‘non-stable, but physical, and financial access to producer with less nutritional food’. Future research should consider mapping the average income and financial ability of residents to understand the affordability of restaurants in the area. Investigating each pillar of food security in more detail, including the cultural layer, would further enhance the understanding of food security in Hatfield. UDTs have the power to redefine African cities, igniting positive transformations. Through mapping and classifying the food security of Hatfield, profound insights have been gained into the methodology of mapping social fabric and the state of its food security.