By 2050, human population will reach nine billion– most of them living in cities. How we will continue to feed our growing cities is the subject of this collection of unique essays – written by farmers, chefs, rural sociologists and philosophers. Complementing these 13 essays are stunning photos depicting our never-ending cycle of growing, trading and consuming food.

“Can art solve the world’s food problems?” ”How does your choice of food influence what’s being farmed?” “Can chefs tackle big problems like hunger and obesity?” ”Should eating meat remain legal?” These are some of the many intriguing questions raised and discussed in Food for the City.

One of the contributors to the book is Indian agricultural activist Dr. Vandana Shiva. She is following in the footsteps of her compatriot Ghandi – who encouraged us to “be the change we seek to see” – by establishing a network of seed keepers and organic producers. Her organization is active across 16 Indian states promoting agriculture based on the principle of food for all.

Another inspiring figure here is Stephan Tanda, an executive of Dutch conglomerate DSM Inc., big in the agriculture, energy and pharmaceutical industries. He advocates a new type of business – one driven not by self-interest but “by the notion of shared value in the fight against the global food crisis’’.

Read this, meet the visionaries and share your thoughts with us.