What does TCBG mean in UNCLASSIFIED

Background

The Table de Concertation Bioalimentaire de la Gaspésie was established as an initiative of the Gaspé Regional Sustainable Development Council (GRDSC) in 2007. With strong roots in grassroots food security initiatives developed since 1999 by local communities and organizations such as municipalities, school boards and NGOs, it was formed with the goal of strengthening the regional food system in order to promote accessibility for citizens of all ages. Over time this has included creating new economic opportunities for small farms and food businesses while ensuring public health protection through the development of standards for food production. TCBG is also working towards making locally produced foods more available within the region through initiatives such as farmers markets and other direct marketing techniques.

Objectives

TCBG seeks to address a variety of issues related to creating a sustainable local food system. At its core are two key objectives – increasing access to healthy foods (especially those produced locally) while encouraging local economic growth through improved agricultural production. To do this TCBG works closely with governments (both federal and provincial), industry groups, academia/research institutions, funding agencies, non-profit organizations as well as members from various farming regions throughout Québec. Through collective action these various stakeholders work together on projects that enhance public health while providing numerous economic advantages at both personal and institutional levels. Examples include activities such as technical training programs for youth farmers or developing policies that support small scale agri-businesses or helping larger processors become more efficient or reducing farm input costs through shared resources such as equipment rental services.