Did you know that over 1.7 million people benefit from Fairtrade certifications? Did you know that over 26% of the world's population depends on agriculture for their livelihoods? Unfortunately, small-scale farmers often face numerous challenges, such as low prices, climate change, and unfair trade practices, that hinder their ability to make a decent living. However, Fairtrade and other sustainability certifications can make a significant difference by ensuring that farmers receive fair prices, access to markets, and support to improve their social, economic, and environmental conditions. Fairtrade is a certification that requires companies to pay a fair price for products, support sustainable practices, and provide social and environmental benefits to farmers and workers. For instance, fairtrade coffee farmers in Colombia have used the premiums they receive to build schools, clinics, and clean water systems. Fairtrade also ensures that workers have safe and fair working conditions and bans child labour and discrimination. Other sustainability certifications, such as Rainforest Alliance, UTZ, and Organic, also promote sustainable farming practices, such as conserving biodiversity, reducing chemical use, and minimizing waste. These certifications also provide traceability and transparency to help consumers make informed choices and support ethical and sustainable production. Leading academics in the field, such as Dr. Ndongo Sylla, have argued that Fairtrade can empower farmers and strengthen their bargaining power in the global market. Other researchers, such as Dr. Sarah Lyon, have highlighted the challenges and limitations of Fairtrade and suggested that it may not be a cure-all for all problems faced by small-scale farmers. By exploring Fairtrade and other sustainability certifications, you can learn about how individuals and organizations can promote social and environmental justice and create a more sustainable and equitable world.

Food waste is a global issue that has serious environmental, economic, and social implications. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, around one-third of all food produced in the world is lost or wasted, which amounts to 1.3 billion tons of food annually. This staggering amount of waste not only squanders precious resources, but it also exacerbates world hunger and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. One of the biggest causes of food waste is the mismatch between supply and demand. Supermarkets, restaurants, and households often discard perfectly edible food that is past its "best before" date or not aesthetically pleasing. However, there are innovative solutions that are being developed to address this issue. For instance, some companies are creating food waste apps that connect consumers with nearby restaurants and grocery stores that have surplus food that they would otherwise throw away. Other companies are developing biodegradable packaging to extend the shelf life of perishable goods and reduce food spoilage. Academics have been studying this issue for decades, and their research has helped to shed light on the complexities of food waste. For example, Dana Gunders, a senior scientist at the Natural Resources Defense Council, has been a leading voice in the food waste reduction movement. Her book, "Waste-Free Kitchen Handbook," provides practical tips on how to reduce food waste at home. Another academic, Tristram Stuart, has written extensively on the topic of food waste and is the founder of Feedback, an organization that campaigns to end food waste. Stuart's book, "Waste: Uncovering the Global Food Scandal," is a seminal work that has helped to bring attention to the issue of food waste. In summary, food waste is a pressing global issue that requires urgent attention. By exploring academic topics related to food waste, students can gain a deeper understanding of the problem and become advocates for change. Through reading, reflection, writing, and self-directed projects, students can make a difference and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Soybeans have been used for centuries in Asian cuisine, but American industrialist Henry Ford took soy to the next level in the 1930s. Soy's versatility and ability to grow easily and cheaply in variable conditions make it a staple in many foods, from mayonnaise to biodegradable plastic. Soy proteins and fats have been used to make spongy foods like tofu and to help make processed foods. Soybeans are also a great source of essential amino acids and "good" fats, which can decrease cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. However, the widespread use of soy has led to deforestation and the displacement of farmers and indigenous communities. Learning about the benefits and challenges of soy can help students become more aware consumers and understand the importance of finding ways to use soy humanely and sustainably.

Are you passionate about food and its impact on society? Do you want to make a difference in the world by helping to shape policies that affect what we eat and how it is produced? Then a career in Food Policy Analysis might be the perfect fit for you! Food Policy Analysis is a fascinating field that combines science, politics, and economics to address some of the most pressing issues of our time. As a Food Policy Analyst, you will work to develop and implement policies that promote healthy, sustainable, and equitable food systems. This could involve anything from researching the impact of agricultural practices on the environment, to advocating for food safety regulations, to analyzing the economic viability of different food production methods. One of the most appealing aspects of this field is the variety of roles that are available. You could work for a government agency, a non-profit organization, a research institution, or a private company. You could specialize in areas such as food security, nutrition, animal welfare, or environmental sustainability. And you could work on issues that affect local communities, entire countries, or even the world at large. To become a Food Policy Analyst, you will typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a related field such as agriculture, economics, public policy, or environmental studies. Many universities offer specialized programs in Food Policy Analysis, such as the one at Tufts University in Boston, which is widely regarded as one of the best in the world. In addition to formal education, there are certain personal attributes that can be helpful in this field. These include strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, a passion for social justice, and a willingness to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. The job prospects for Food Policy Analysts are quite promising, as there is a growing demand for professionals who can help address the complex challenges facing our global food system. Some notable employers in this field include the World Health Organization, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and the Environmental Defense Fund. So if you're looking for a career that combines your love of food with your desire to make a positive impact on the world, consider exploring the exciting and rewarding field of Food Policy Analysis!

Are you a foodie with an interest in the social, economic, and environmental factors that influence our food systems? Do you want to be part of the solution to global food challenges? Then Food Systems and Policy might be the perfect field of study for you! Food Systems and Policy is an exciting interdisciplinary field that examines the complex relationships between food, people, and the environment. This field of study is all about understanding the food system from farm to fork, and the policies that shape it. Did you know that Food Systems and Policy is a rapidly growing field of study? Researchers in this field are working on innovative solutions to address global food challenges such as food security, sustainability, and food waste. For example, some researchers are exploring ways to reduce food waste by using technology to track food from farm to table, while others are working on developing sustainable farming practices. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in food systems, food policy, agriculture, and environmental studies. Some universities also offer specializations in areas such as sustainable agriculture, food justice, and food entrepreneurship. If you're interested in pursuing a career in Food Systems and Policy, there are many exciting job opportunities available. Graduates can work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, research institutions, and private companies. Some popular career paths include food policy analyst, sustainable agriculture specialist, food systems planner, and food entrepreneur. Notable employers in this field include the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, the World Bank, and the Environmental Protection Agency. There are also many exciting startups and social enterprises working to create positive change in the food system. To succeed in this field, you'll need to have a passion for food and a strong interest in social and environmental issues. You should also be a critical thinker, problem solver, and have excellent communication skills. So, if you're ready to make a difference in the world of food, consider studying Food Systems and Policy. Who knows, you might just be the next big innovator in this exciting field!

Before fast food and TV dinners, there were oranges. Discover how two brothers turned a failed theater into a successful food stand, paving the way for the fast food industry. Learn about the challenges they faced during the Depression and their vision for the future of fast food.

Have you ever thought about how your food choices impact society as a whole? It turns out that what we choose to eat can have significant consequences on the environment, animal welfare, and social justice. In this write-up, we will explore the ethics of eating and how it is connected to social justice. At the heart of the ethics of eating is the idea of "food justice," which is the idea that everyone should have access to healthy, affordable, and culturally appropriate food. Unfortunately, this is not the case in many parts of the world, including in the United States. In fact, according to a report by the USDA, 11.1% of U.S. households were food insecure in 2018, meaning they lacked access to enough food for an active, healthy life for all household members. One of the main contributors to food insecurity is the industrial food system, which is designed to maximize profits at the expense of public health, animal welfare, and the environment. This system prioritizes large-scale monoculture farming, animal confinement, and the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers over more sustainable and equitable approaches to agriculture. So, what can we do to promote food justice? One approach is to support local and sustainable food systems. This means buying food from farmers who prioritize environmental and social sustainability, and who use practices like crop rotation, integrated pest management, and cover cropping to promote healthy soil and biodiversity. It also means supporting initiatives that promote food access and affordability for low-income communities, such as community gardens and food co-ops. Leading academics in the field of food justice include Dr. Raj Patel, author of "Stuffed and Starved: The Hidden Battle for the World Food System," and Dr. Alison Hope Alkon, author of "Black, White, and Green: Farmers Markets, Race, and the Green Economy." These scholars have written extensively on the intersection of food, social justice, and the environment, and offer valuable insights on how we can build more sustainable and equitable food systems. By exploring the ethics of eating and its connection to social justice, you can become a more informed and responsible consumer and advocate for more sustainable and equitable food systems.

Have you ever considered how the loss of agrobiodiversity affects our food and agriculture? Discover how the standard American diet has evolved in the last 45 years and how our love of cheese has contributed to a whopping 20 additional pounds in total fat we eat each year. Learn about the reduction of diversity in our food supply and how it affects our ability to feed ourselves. Explore the global standard diet and the impact of standardization on our food and taste.

The pandemic has highlighted the need for better connections to nature and public policies to tackle the climate and biodiversity crises. England is experimenting with a new system to transform the way its landscape is managed after leaving the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy. Discover how an incremental approach, may just deliver transformation in the English countryside and nature that would have otherwise stayed in the 'too difficult box'.

Are you passionate about the environment, sustainability, and food production? Do you want to make a real difference in the world? Then studying Agricultural Sciences at university might be the perfect fit for you! Agricultural Sciences is a fascinating field that encompasses a wide range of topics, from plant and animal biology to soil science, economics, and policy. It's a field that is constantly evolving, with new research and innovations being developed all the time to address the challenges facing our planet. One of the most exciting aspects of Agricultural Sciences is the hands-on, real-world experience you'll gain. You'll have the opportunity to work on research projects and internships that will allow you to get your hands dirty and make a real impact. For example, you might work on developing new crop varieties that are more resistant to pests and diseases, or you might help design sustainable farming practices that reduce the environmental impact of agriculture. There are also many inspiring academic figures in this field, such as Norman Borlaug, who is known as the father of the Green Revolution for his work in developing high-yield crops that helped feed millions of people around the world. Other notable figures include Rachel Carson, who is credited with starting the modern environmental movement with her book Silent Spring, and Vandana Shiva, who is a leading voice in the movement for sustainable agriculture and food systems. At the undergraduate level, you'll typically take courses in subjects like plant biology, animal science, agricultural economics, and environmental policy. You'll also have the opportunity to specialize in areas like sustainable agriculture, food science, or agribusiness. And there are many exciting career paths you can pursue with a degree in Agricultural Sciences, from working in research and development for companies like Monsanto or Syngenta, to working for government agencies like the USDA or the EPA, to starting your own sustainable farming business. To succeed in this field, you'll need to be passionate about the environment and sustainability, as well as have a strong background in science and math. You'll also need to be a creative problem-solver, able to think outside the box to come up with innovative solutions to the challenges facing our planet. So if you're ready to make a real difference in the world, consider studying Agricultural Sciences at university. It's a field that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply rewarding, and it offers endless opportunities to make a positive impact on our planet and its people.

Billions of animals are raised and slaughtered in factory farms every year, in conditions likely to cause extreme suffering. Many experts believe animals have conscious experiences and can experience pain. We tend to value the suffering of humans more than animals, which could be a form of "speciesism". There are things we can do to help solve this problem, including persuading people to change their diets, lobbying for better welfare standards for animals, and developing alternatives to animal products. Cost-effectiveness analyses suggest there are opportunities to have large-scale positive impacts on animal welfare, with corporate campaigns seeming particularly promising.

Seaweed may be the future of sustainable and nutritious food. As the global population continues to grow and traditional agriculture methods take a toll on the environment, seaweed could be a more efficient and eco-friendly option. Researchers are exploring the potential of seaweed not only as a food source, but also as a tool to combat climate change. Companies like Dutch Weed Burger, AKUA, and Umaro Foods are already developing plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy using seaweed, which is high in nutrients and can be grown without land or fresh water.

Transform farmland into thriving habitats for nature while hitting UK's climate and biodiversity targets at half the cost? Yes, it's possible! A new study by leading universities shows incentivizing farmers to spare land for habitats is a cost-effective solution.

Discover the fascinating history behind the painstaking hand-pollination process of vanilla, the world's second most expensive spice. Learn how the enslaved boy Edmond Albius developed the method that is still in use today and the challenges faced by farmers in cultivating and processing this beloved flavor. Explore how vanilla has become one of the most lucrative spices in existence, with an insatiable demand from consumers worldwide.

The invasion of purple sea urchins has devastated kelp forests along the coasts of California, Japan, Norway, Canada, and Tasmania, leaving behind barren underwater landscapes that can last for decades. However, a Norwegian company called Urchinomics has a plan to restore kelp forests and create a new fishery for overpopulated urchins through "urchin ranching." Urchin ranching could potentially create a local speciality dining market for purple urchin uni, but it will take an aggressive and thorough approach to remove enough urchins to restore kelp forests.

Do you know where your food comes from? In 'The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals', Michael Pollan takes you on a journey from the industrial food complex to foraging in the wild, revealing the hidden costs of our modern food systems. As you follow each food chain, you'll learn how our eating choices impact not only our own health but also the health of the environment. Pollan's insightful exploration of our relationship with food will make you question everything you thought you knew about what's on your plate. Recommended for anyone interested in food systems, environmental sustainability, health, and ethics. This book is relevant to students interested in fields such as agriculture, biology, nutrition, environmental studies, and ethics. It is also relevant to anyone who cares about the impact of their food choices on their health and the health of the planet. The book challenges readers to think critically about the industrial food complex and consider alternative ways of producing and consuming food that prioritize sustainability and ethical considerations.

Your favorite chocolate, moisturizer, and tea may contain ingredients from threatened plants, leading to environmental damage and worker exploitation. A recent report highlights 12 such plants, including Brazil nuts and frankincense, and warns of overharvesting, child labor, and violations of worker's rights. As the demand for natural products grows, it's important to consider the sustainability of their ingredients. Learn more about the risks and challenges of sourcing plant derivatives in household products.

Discover the fascinating world of seeds with this award-winning book that takes you on a journey through their natural and human history. From the nutmeg and pepper that drove the Age of Discovery to the coffee beans that fueled the Enlightenment, seeds have played a crucial role in shaping diets, economies, and civilizations around the globe. Through the eyes of a field biologist and the charm of a fireside storyteller, explore the beauty, wonder, and evolutionary marvels of seeds that are often overlooked. Essential reading for anyone who loves to see a plant grow. Recommended for botanists, environmentalists, farmers, historians, and anyone curious about the natural world, this book offers a unique perspective on the often-overlooked importance of seeds. It delves into the historical, cultural, and economic significance of seeds, showing how they have shaped human societies and impacted global events. The book also offers a scientific exploration of the biology and ecology of seeds, making it relevant to students and professionals in fields such as botany, biology, and agriculture. Overall, this book offers a captivating and informative read for anyone interested in the wonders of the natural world.

Have you ever wondered what the most important invention in history is? You might think it's something like the Internet or smartphones, but what if we told you that farming is actually the seed of civilization? Without early man's discovery of using seeds to grow grain, we wouldn't have much of anything we have today. Farming yielded plenty of food, with enough to store, trade, and eat. Therefore, not everyone needed to be farmers. This allowed other people, non-farmers, to do other things such as make tools, craft pottery, and build homes. Farming and food surpluses led to the division of labor, which allowed for innovative ways of doing things, producing new products, or making advancements in technology. The sharing of ideas and technology led to the growth of things we readily use today, like the Internet. By learning about these key academic concepts, you can gain a better understanding of the evolution of society and the impact that innovation and invention have had on our lives today.

In "The End of Food," Paul Roberts exposes the unsettling truth about our modern food system - it's failing us. Salmonella-tainted tomatoes, riots, and skyrocketing prices are just the tip of the iceberg. With high-volume factory systems creating new risks for food-borne illness and high-yield crops generating grain, produce, and meat of declining nutritional quality, it's clear that our relationship with food needs to change. Roberts presents a vivid and thought-provoking narrative that offers stark visions of the future and helps us prepare to make the necessary decisions to survive the demise of food production as we know it. Recommended for anyone interested in the future of our food system, "The End of Food" offers valuable insights for students of agriculture, environmental studies, and public health. It also has relevance for those working in the food industry, policymakers, and anyone concerned about the impact of our food choices on our health and the planet. With a clear and compelling narrative, Paul Roberts challenges us to rethink our relationship with food and offers practical solutions for navigating the challenges of a changing food landscape.