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Katherine Richardson
The UN predicts we will be 9-10 billion people on Earth in 2050. Providing so many people with nutritious foods is a massive challenge and one that cannot be met by simply upscaling current practices regarding food production and consumption. Providing humanity with nutritional food is at the center of all decisions related to sustainable development.
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The UN predicts we will be 9-10 billion people on Earth in 2050. Providing so many people with nutritious foods is a massive challenge and one that cannot be met by simply upscaling current practices regarding food production and consumption. Providing humanity with nutritional food is at the center of all decisions related to sustainable development.
Read more
The UN predicts we will be 9-10 billion people on Earth in 2050. Providing so many people with nutritious foods is a massive challenge and one that cannot be met by simply upscaling current practices regarding food production and consumption. Providing humanity with nutritional food is at the center of all decisions related to sustainable development.
Agriculture is responsible for 80% of global deforestation. The food systems release 29% of global greenhouse gasses. We use an area equivalent to North and South America combined for the production of meat for consumption or to produce the food necessary to feed the animals we eat. 70% of fresh water use is related to agriculture. These figures are staggering, and they show us, that we need to rethink and transform the way we produce, distribute and consume food worldwide.
This course focuses on how food systems can become more sustainable. It consists of four modules where each focuses on an essential ingredient towards developing more sustainable food systems: (1) Boosting the small, (2) Transforming the big, (3) Losing less and (4) Eating smarter. In each of these key areas, we will meet people from different countries around the world, who labor every day to find and spread solutions that work.
Connecting the challenges that must be overcome to develop a sustainable global food system with the solutions being developed by the amazing group of people you meet in this course has been a huge source of inspiration for me. I truly believe that the global food system can be transformed to sustainably meet the needs of 9-10 billion people and, with this course, I dare you to join me!
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/48wbhs/transformation
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to the Global Food System
This first module is an introduction to the challenges facing society when we talk about the global food system. The Doughnut Economics and Planetary Boundaries frameworks are presented and the crucial role of the global food system described. Four areas of intervention in terms of transforming the global food system are identified. In addition, the four “levers” or “tools” identified in the UN 2019 Global Sustainable Development Report that society has at its disposal to transform the global food system are presented: Technology, Governance, Finance and Behavioral Change. These levers are all further developed in the following modules.
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Syllabus
Introduction to the Global Food System
This first module is an introduction to the challenges facing society when we talk about the global food system. The Doughnut Economics and Planetary Boundaries frameworks are presented and the crucial role of the global food system described. Four areas of intervention in terms of transforming the global food system are identified. In addition, the four “levers” or “tools” identified in the UN 2019 Global Sustainable Development Report that society has at its disposal to transform the global food system are presented: Technology, Governance, Finance and Behavioral Change. These levers are all further developed in the following modules.
Read more
Boosting the Small
One of the essential elements for bringing the global food system onto a sustainable trajectory, is boosting, i.e., improving conditions for small-scale farmers, especially in the Global South. In this module, we look at the major challenges confronting small-scale farmers when it comes to access to information, finance, fertilizers, etc. These challenges can be met through the use of existing technologies, government intervention, and consumer awareness.
Transforming the big
The second essential element in a sustainable transformation of the global food system takes focuses on changes in industrialized, large-scale agricultural production. These practices must be changed in order to have a sustainable food system. This module identifies some of the kinds of changes needed and presents case studies showing how some actors are beginning the transformation process.
Losing less
The third essential element for transforming the global food system is reducing food loss and waste. Today, about a third of all of the food produced is never consumed. Thus, no nutritional value was created for the environmental degradation associated with the production of a large percentage of the food produced. If we can limit food loss and waste, it will be possible to stay within our planetary boundaries while feeding the increasing world population. A challenge in reducing this loss and waste is actually climate change. This module examines strategies for reducing food loss and waste.
Eating Smarter
The fourth and final essential element for achieving a sustainable food system is changing our diets. While an increasing population in the Global South will need access to nutrient-rich foods, the Global North will have to make room for this development by eating smarter. Meat production is especially damaging to the climate and environment. Many people’s health would benefit by eating less meat and it is possible to easily replace meat with alternative sources of protein. This module focuses on when and how it is easiest to change eating habits and what we need to change them to!
Conclusion: What does transformation really mean?
The Finale. In this module, we examine what it would mean for the global food system if the potentials identified through Boosting the Small, Transforming the Big, Losing Less, and Eating Smarter were to be combined. The module argues that it is possible to develop a global food system that can meet the nutritional needs of 9-10 billion people without destroying the environment and while keeping global warming within the 1.5 - 2 degrees Celcius guardrail identified in the Paris Agreement. Doing so will, however, require a strong focus on transforming the global food system.
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Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Qualitatively, this course is located at a masters graduate level
Provides hard data about serious environmental degradation, which may be alarming for certain learners
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Reviews summary
Transforming the global food system
Learners say this course offers insights into engaging assignments and difficult exams, explores lectures, readings, quizzes, and homework assignments, and discusses instructors, deadlines, and certificates. According to students, the course is largely positive and features guest speakers, real-world examples, and interactive exercises.
Emphasizes the importance of behavioral change for transforming the food system.
"I am glad that I took this such an "opening eyes" course, not only for my personal interest, but also it evokes my motivation to get involved in behavioural change to make contribution in order to transform our food system to be more sustainable"
Provides practical and tailored tools, concepts, and approaches for transforming food systems.
"Great course for every professional aspiring to catalyse transformation of food systems from a systemic lens. The tools, concepts and approaches are valuable, practical and tailored to the context one is working in."
A comprehensive course covering the challenges and emerging solutions for the global food system.
"The course presented a good overview of the problems facing the Global Food System and presented some interesting feasible options to work toward a more sustainable system that can feed the increasing world population."
Offers a global introduction to food system transformation, from strategy to concrete projects.
"Great Global introduction to Food system transformation from global strategy to concrete transformation projects. Would recommend it to anyone who want to start having a general / global overview on the food system and its transformation."
Well-organized and presented with thoughtful and thought-provoking content.
"Extremely well organized and presented. Thoughtful and thought-provoking. An important subject for which all individuals should have some basic understanding. I feel I have a much better comprehension of this topic. One of the best done online courses that I have taken."
Highlights the importance of sustainability and provides solutions for reducing GHG emissions while considering planetary boundaries.
"This course provides a very good introduction into the global food systems and provides learning material for enabling stakeholders to take concrete actions to reduce GHG emissions, while keeping an eye on the nine planetary boundaries."
Features expert instructors who deliver engaging and impactful lectures.
"Katherine Richardson knows how to deliver the information in the best, apprehensible and educational way! BIG THANKS"
Delivers up-to-date and relevant information on global food systems.
"This course has been a great opportunity to approach the current state of the art in terms of sustainable food systems. The way the modules are organised and the research, scientific papers and cases shown are perfectly picked. It has been very interesting and open-minding."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Transformation of the Global Food System with these
activities:
Review the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Show steps
Focus on learning about the UN Sustainable Development Goals, specifically paying attention to Goal 2: Zero Hunger.
Browse courses on
UN Sustainable Development Goals
Show steps
-
Go to the UN Sustainable Development Goals website and read about Goal 2: Zero Hunger.
-
Read articles and watch videos about the challenges of achieving Zero Hunger.
-
Take a quiz or test yourself on your knowledge of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Explore the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) website
Show steps
Explore the FAO website to learn about their work in various areas related to the global food system.
Browse courses on
Food Systems
Show steps
-
Go to the FAO website and browse their publications on climate change and food systems.
-
Watch videos and webinars on the FAO YouTube channel.
-
Follow the FAO on social media to stay up-to-date on their latest research and initiatives.
Attend workshops or conferences on global food systems
Show steps
Attend workshops or conferences to learn from experts and practitioners in the field of global food systems.
Show steps
-
Research upcoming workshops and conferences on global food systems.
-
Identify workshops or conferences that align with your interests.
-
Register for the workshop or conference.
-
Attend the sessions, take notes, and participate in discussions.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Join a study group or online forum to discuss course topics
Show steps
Get involved in a peer-to-peer group to discuss the course materials, ask questions, and share resources.
Show steps
-
Find or create a study group with other students in the course.
-
Meet regularly to discuss the course content and assignments.
-
Use online forums or discussion boards to connect with other students and ask questions.
Analyze case studies on successful and unsuccessful food system initiatives
Show steps
Engage in analyzing case studies to understand best practices and challenges in implementing sustainable food system initiatives.
Show steps
-
Identify case studies of both successful and unsuccessful food system initiatives.
-
Develop a framework for analyzing the case studies, considering factors such as project design, implementation, and impact.
-
Analyze the case studies, identifying key lessons learned and best practices.
-
Present your findings and insights to others.
Read The End of Food: An Account of Food Poverty, Corporate Power, and the End of Sustainability
Show steps
Read this book to gain a deep understanding of the challenges facing our global food system and the potential consequences if we do not take action.
View
The End of Oil
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book and take notes on the key points and arguments.
-
Find online reviews and articles that discuss the book and its implications.
-
Write a summary or review of the book, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses.
Volunteer with an organization working to address food insecurity or sustainability
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience working with organizations actively engaged in addressing global food challenges.
Show steps
-
Research different organizations working in the field of food security and sustainability.
-
Identify a local or national organization that aligns with your interests.
-
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
-
Attend volunteer training and orientation.
-
Participate in volunteer activities such as food distribution, community gardening, or advocacy campaigns.
Develop a plan for how you can make a positive impact on the global food system
Show steps
Create a detailed plan outlining specific actions you can take to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable food system.
Show steps
-
Identify areas where you can make a difference, such as in your personal consumption habits, local food initiatives, or advocacy efforts.
-
Research and explore different approaches and strategies that could be effective.
-
Develop a plan that includes specific actions, timelines, and expected outcomes.
-
Share your plan with others and seek feedback.
Review the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Show steps
Focus on learning about the UN Sustainable Development Goals, specifically paying attention to Goal 2: Zero Hunger.
Browse courses on
UN Sustainable Development Goals
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Go to the UN Sustainable Development Goals website and read about Goal 2: Zero Hunger.
- Read articles and watch videos about the challenges of achieving Zero Hunger.
- Take a quiz or test yourself on your knowledge of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Explore the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) website
Show steps
Explore the FAO website to learn about their work in various areas related to the global food system.
Browse courses on
Food Systems
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Go to the FAO website and browse their publications on climate change and food systems.
- Watch videos and webinars on the FAO YouTube channel.
- Follow the FAO on social media to stay up-to-date on their latest research and initiatives.
Attend workshops or conferences on global food systems
Show steps
Attend workshops or conferences to learn from experts and practitioners in the field of global food systems.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research upcoming workshops and conferences on global food systems.
- Identify workshops or conferences that align with your interests.
- Register for the workshop or conference.
- Attend the sessions, take notes, and participate in discussions.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Join a study group or online forum to discuss course topics
Show steps
Get involved in a peer-to-peer group to discuss the course materials, ask questions, and share resources.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find or create a study group with other students in the course.
- Meet regularly to discuss the course content and assignments.
- Use online forums or discussion boards to connect with other students and ask questions.
Analyze case studies on successful and unsuccessful food system initiatives
Show steps
Engage in analyzing case studies to understand best practices and challenges in implementing sustainable food system initiatives.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify case studies of both successful and unsuccessful food system initiatives.
- Develop a framework for analyzing the case studies, considering factors such as project design, implementation, and impact.
- Analyze the case studies, identifying key lessons learned and best practices.
- Present your findings and insights to others.
Read The End of Food: An Account of Food Poverty, Corporate Power, and the End of Sustainability
Show steps
Read this book to gain a deep understanding of the challenges facing our global food system and the potential consequences if we do not take action.
View
The End of Oil
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book and take notes on the key points and arguments.
- Find online reviews and articles that discuss the book and its implications.
- Write a summary or review of the book, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses.
Volunteer with an organization working to address food insecurity or sustainability
Show steps
Gain hands-on experience working with organizations actively engaged in addressing global food challenges.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research different organizations working in the field of food security and sustainability.
- Identify a local or national organization that aligns with your interests.
- Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
- Attend volunteer training and orientation.
- Participate in volunteer activities such as food distribution, community gardening, or advocacy campaigns.
Develop a plan for how you can make a positive impact on the global food system
Show steps
Create a detailed plan outlining specific actions you can take to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable food system.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify areas where you can make a difference, such as in your personal consumption habits, local food initiatives, or advocacy efforts.
- Research and explore different approaches and strategies that could be effective.
- Develop a plan that includes specific actions, timelines, and expected outcomes.
- Share your plan with others and seek feedback.
Career center
Learners who complete Transformation of the Global Food System will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Agricultural Economist
Agricultural Economist
An Agricultural Economist is highly concerned with the global food system and the policies and economics that affect it. The "Transformation of the Global Food System" course provides the context in which agricultural economics takes place. It also gives a foundational understanding of the issues facing agricultural economics professionals as well as solutions that are working. Those who are looking to go into agricultural economics will be able to learn about some of the kinds of economic development and change that they may be responsible for.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists that specialize in agriculture, food systems, and sustainability would benefit greatly from "Transformation of the Global Food System." This course provides the background needed to understand how large, multi-national food systems, as well as small, local systems, can operate sustainably. It discusses the kinds of policy changes, economic innovations, and technological changes that these systems need in order to remain sustainable in the long term. Environmental scientists need to be aware of how food systems impact the environment and human health so that they can contribute to informed decision-making.
Food Scientist
Food Scientist
Food Scientists that want to work towards making food systems more sustainable will find that this course gives them a good overview of the challenges and opportunities in the field. They will become familiar with the concepts of planetary boundaries and the doughnut economy and how these impact food systems. Additionally, the course provides a review of resources and case studies of successful interventions in developing more sustainable food systems.
Agricultural Engineer
Agricultural Engineer
Agricultural Engineers need to understand how complex food systems affect agricultural practices and global food production. The "Transformation of the Global Food System" course provides this framework, giving particular attention to the challenges of developing sustainable food systems in the Global South. Agricultural Engineers need to understand the potential benefits of "boosting the small" as well as "transforming the big" in food systems. This course equips them with this information.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants who specialize in food systems would benefit from the general overview of sustainability challenges and solutions that the "Transformation of the Global Food System" can provide. This course would help sustainability consultants identify new areas in which to work as well as connect them with potential clients who need help in developing more sustainable food systems.
Food Policy Analyst
Food Policy Analyst
The complex issues covered in "Transformation of the Global Food System" are essential knowledge for any Food Policy Analyst. This course gives an overview of the major policy issues involved with food production, distribution, and consumption, both worldwide and especially in the Global South. Food Policy Analysts will better understand the effects of climate change and the need to build resilience into food systems.
Food Systems Analyst
Food Systems Analyst
The job of a Food Systems Analyst requires a detailed understanding of the production, distribution, and consumption of food, especially within the constraints of global food systems. The "Transformation of the Global Food System" provides context and an overview of the field that will be useful to these professionals. It is especially useful as it focuses on the need for a global approach to resolving hunger, nutrition, and sustainability issues.
Climate Scientist
Climate Scientist
The "Tranformation of the Global Food System" course offers a climate scientist a chance to learn about the major trends and challenges facing agriculture and food systems globally. As climate change continues to impact global food systems, climate scientists can use this information to better predict these impacts and develop solutions.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists can benefit from the information in this course, as they may work alongside food scientists, agriculturalists, and nutritionists to address global food security and supply chain issues.
Science Writer
Science Writer
The "Transformation of the Global Food System" may be of interest to science writers looking to cover the latest developments in sustainable agriculture and food systems, especially as they relate to global health and climate action.
Nutritional Epidemiologist
Nutritional Epidemiologist
Nutritional Epidemiologists who are interested in food systems analysis and reducing food insecurity and malnutrition may find the course helpful.
Sociologist
Sociologist
The course helps Sociologists to understand the complex social, economic, and environmental challenges that affect the global food system. It also provides insights into the policies and interventions that are needed to transform the food system and make it more sustainable and just.
Humanitarian Aid Worker
Humanitarian Aid Worker
Humanitarian Aid Workers who specialize in food security and disaster response would find the information given in this course relevant to their work. Understanding the global food system helps them better distribute aid in crisis situations.
Chef
Chef
Chefs can stay informed about the latest trends in sustainable food preparation and can use the information from this course to connect with local, sustainable food producers and become advocates for food system change.
Food Service Manager
Food Service Manager
Food Service Managers in schools, hospitals, and other group settings can use the information in this course to understand how food choices affect health and the sustainability of the global food system. They can then improve food procurement and preparation practices within their own kitchens.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/48wbhs/transformation
Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Transformation of the Global Food System.
Provides a philosophical argument for the liberation of animals. Singer argues that animals are sentient beings who deserve moral consideration. The book powerful reminder of the importance of animal rights.
Save
Provides a visual exploration of the global food system. Menzel and D'Aluisio traveled to 24 countries to document the different ways that people eat. The book powerful reminder of the diversity of the global food system and the challenges facing it.
Provides a comprehensive analysis of the global food economy. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the economic forces that shape the global food system.
Provides a look into the future of the global food system. Renton explores the challenges and opportunities facing the global food system and discusses the potential solutions to these challenges.
Save
Provides a historical overview of the global food system. Paarlberg argues that the global food system is undergoing a major transformation and that this transformation will have a profound impact on the world.
Provides a critical analysis of the industrialization of agriculture. Gardner argues that the industrialization of agriculture has had a negative impact on the environment, the food system, and human health.
Save
Provides a sobering look at the challenges facing the global food system. Roberts argues that we are facing a global food crisis that will have devastating consequences if we do not take action.
Provides a personal exploration of the global food system. Pollan traces the journey of four meals from their origin to their consumption. The book powerful reminder of the importance of understanding the global food system.
Save
Provides a manifesto for a more sustainable food system. Pollan argues that we need to make fundamental changes to the way we produce and consume food in order to create a healthier and more sustainable world.
Provides a powerful indictment of the industrial meat industry. Foer argues that the industrial meat industry major contributor to animal suffering, environmental degradation, and human health problems.
Save
Provides a practical guide to the slow food movement. Petrini argues that the slow food movement way to resist the industrialization of agriculture and to create a more sustainable food system.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/48wbhs/transformation
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Effort
6 weeks of study, 2-4 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Copenhagen
Instructor
Katherine Richardson
Language
English
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Good to know
Qualitatively, this course is located at a masters graduate level
Provides hard data about serious environmental degradation, which may be alarming for certain learners
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