Interview with Laura van Geel on Protein Diversification and Sustainability Initiatives
Laura van Geel serves as the Senior Manager for Agriculture and Food at the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). In her role, she aims to integrate sustainability into business competitiveness. With a rich background of 15 years at Unilever and strong academic qualifications, Laura leads initiatives that shape the future of food systems.
The WBCSD is a CEO-led organization that unites companies within the agriculture and food sectors to promote healthier and more sustainable dietary practices. In a recent discussion, Laura shared insights on protein diversification, the needs of businesses, and the challenges they face, particularly when official dietary guidelines conflict with their strategies.
Role and Focus on Protein Diversification
Laura’s work revolves around fostering healthy and sustainable diets, connecting stakeholders from various parts of the food supply chain, including agricultural producers and food manufacturers. She emphasizes that protein diversification is central to their agenda, since protein consumption greatly impacts food system outcomes. Current research indicates that food production accounts for about one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions and is linked to unhealthy diets, leading to millions of preventable deaths annually.
Shifting consumer preferences toward healthier and sustainable options present protein diversification as not just an eco-friendly choice but a significant business opportunity. By diversifying protein sources, companies can adapt to market changes, bolster supply chain resilience, and contribute to better food systems.
Understanding Protein Diversification
At the WBCSD, protein diversification means embracing a wide range of protein sources. This encompasses not only plant-based options like legumes and grains but also proteins from aquatic sources and fermentation. The goal is not to choose one type of protein over another but to increase variety and choice for consumers while considering local nutritional needs and production contexts.
Many members of the WBCSD view this diversification as a chance for resilience and business growth. A diverse protein landscape can absorb market shocks, spark innovation, and open up new avenues for growth, as consumer interest in varied protein choices continues to rise.
Key Business Needs and Policy Frameworks
According to recent findings, businesses seek three key support forms from government entities: incentives for production transition, policies to promote demand, and cohesive long-term strategies that embed protein diversification within national agendas. They advocate for a combination of financial support and clarity in policies to achieve successful diversification.
Recent developments in markets like China, Europe, and the United States show positive trends. For instance, China’s policy now prioritizes protein diversification as part of its Five-Year Plan, while Denmark’s initiatives showcase collaborative frameworks between governments and businesses. Meanwhile, U.S. companies report growing consumer interest in diverse protein products, driven by innovation and affordability.
Addressing Challenges and Moving Forward
Despite progress, businesses still face persistent challenges, particularly regarding coherent policies that align across different government sectors. The need for supportive regulations and infrastructure to scale protein diversification is essential.
For the upcoming year, Laura hopes to see more countries establishing clear, supportive policies that facilitate protein diversification. This includes revising dietary guidelines to incorporate health and environmental aspects, creating public demand for diverse protein options through institutions like schools, and ensuring alignment in national strategies.
Ultimately, the focus is on moving beyond discussions to tangible implementations that empower businesses to innovate, invest, and thrive in a diverse protein market.
