DRAFT Inspired by the Fibonacci spiral, also known as a sacred spiral, which occurs in nature at a range of scales—from shells, ferns, flowers, and vegetables to entire galaxies— Growing from the Root conceptualizes Philadelphia’s food system as a spiral, as opposed to the traditional circular food system. This adaptation of the food system structure offers several important benefits: > The interconnected framework positions land at the center and people as the force that moves and holds the food system. Both are fundamental to how the system has functioned throughout time and key to unlocking a more just, equitable, and sustainable food system. > Just as the spiral opens, there is space for evolution within this version of the food system. Since it is not a closed loop, there is room for change and an opening that welcomes new people and future generations to the cycle. > Every element of the food system is interrelated. Each part of the cycle informs the others and is in constant dialogue with people and constant relationship to land.
FIGURE 1. Philadelphia’s
Named for the Italian mathematician who discovered this naturally occurring number sequence, the Fibonacci spiral represents a universal pattern of growth and evolution.
Food System
This representation of Philadelphia’s food system contains six elements: (1) Land; (2) Production; (3) Preparation and Distribution; (4) Consumption; (5) Waste Reduction; and (6) People.
GROWING FROM THE ROOT: PHILADELPHIA’S URBAN AGRICULTURE PLAN
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