Food goes far beyond nutrition. It reflects sociocultural identities and territorial heritage, consumption dynamics, economic development, public policies, sustainability concerns, food production, distribution and consumption. Understanding food production and food products, practices and strategies offers key insights into both historical traditions and contemporary lifestyles. Around the world, food and drink serve as powerful symbols of identity and attract interest through diverse value chains, economic interests and cultural expressions. On the other hand, traditional and local food systems contribute to cultural heritage, biodiversity conservation and sustainability matters from environmental, sociocultural and economic concerns.

The Collection "Food, societies and sustainability: Contemporary concerns around local food production and consumption" explores how food is locally produced, promoted and protected through public and private initiatives, food-based experiences, media platforms, and sustainable dietary and productive practices. It encourages contributions that examine how food concerns are shaped in contemporary societies, how globalization is affecting local food cultures, emphasizing the role of food as both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. Food preferences, food stereotypes, and attitudes towards food sustainability, analysed through the lenses of generational gaps and gender differences are also welcomed. This Collection seeks original research and case studies using both qualitative and quantitative methods.

Keywords: Food Systems, Food culture, Food Production, Locality, Heritage, Tourism, Gastronomy, Agricultural Biodiversity, Livestock Biodiversity, Food Sustainability, Regenerative Tourism.

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 2, SDG 3, SDG 4, SDG 5, SDG 10, SDG 12, and SDG 17.

Water is the lifeblood of our planet, fundamental to all life forms and a cornerstone of human progress. Yet, despite its critical importance, ensuring universal access to clean and safe water remains a pressing global challenge. In the face of complex issues such as climate change, urbanization, and population growth, the need for sustainable water management has never been more urgent. Water security, quality, and accessibility are integral to fulfilling the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which emphasizes ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. However, the path to water sustainability is laden with challenges, ranging from the pollution and contamination of freshwater resources to the degradation of ecosystems that support vital water cycles.

In this context, the proposed research collection, “Clean Water and World Sustainability”, aims to compile pioneering research that addresses the multifaceted issues surrounding clean water, ecosystem health, and global sustainability. This collection seeks to showcase groundbreaking solutions and interdisciplinary approaches that promote sustainable water practices while considering the broader environmental, economic, and social impacts of water use.

We welcome contributions from scholars worldwide that present original research on topics such as: (i) the impact of industrial and agricultural practices on water quality and availability; (ii) advances in water treatment technologies and wastewater management; (iii) the role of freshwater ecosystems in mitigating climate change; (iv) sustainable water governance models and policy frameworks; and (v) the interaction between water scarcity, human health, and socioeconomic development.

This collection provides a unique platform for researchers to disseminate their cutting-edge findings on transformative solutions to the world’s water crisis and contribute to global sustainability efforts. The research presented will not only inform policy decisions but also empower local communities, industry leaders, and environmental advocates to take action in safeguarding and rejuvenating this invaluable resource.

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to: SDG 6 & SDG 11

Keywords: Water Accessibility and Management; Water Security; Water Treatment Technologies; Sustainable Development; Ecosystem Health; Interdisciplinary Approaches; Sewage/Wastewater Reuse