Transformation of the Global Food System from Coursera

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!

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.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

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

Reviews summary

Insights into global food system transformation

According to students, this course offers a comprehensive overview of the challenges and solutions within the global food system. Learners appreciate the well-structured modules, from boosting small farmers to eating smarter, highlighting critical areas like food loss and waste. While providing a strong theoretical foundation, some note a potential for more practical applications or deeper dives into specific technologies. Overall, the course is seen as highly relevant for understanding sustainable development and its impact on food security.

Addresses sensitive topics like dietary changes and meat consumption.

"The module on eating smarter was thought-provoking and relevant to current debates."

"I found the discussion on meat consumption very important for sustainability."

"Some parts on dietary changes were a bit prescriptive, but valuable overall."

Valuable for those interested in sustainable development and policy.

"This course is directly applicable to my work in sustainable development."

"The frameworks like Doughnut Economics are very useful for professionals."

"I found it crucial for understanding policy related to global food security."

Focuses on real-world solutions and inspiring case studies.

"I appreciated meeting people finding solutions from different countries."

"The case studies illustrate how transformation can begin in practice."

"It was inspiring to see how food systems can be transformed sustainably."

Course focuses on delivering information, perhaps less interactive.

"I'd benefit from more interactive assignments or quizzes to solidify learning."

"The course felt mostly like watching lectures and readings, which was fine."

"Could use more opportunities for discussion or hands-on engagement."

Offers a broad overview, may lack in-depth technical detail.

"I wish there was more depth on specific technologies or interventions."

"It's a great introduction, but don't expect highly specialized content."

"While comprehensive, I felt some topics could benefit from more detailed analysis."

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

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Focus on learning about the UN Sustainable Development Goals, specifically paying attention to Goal 2: Zero Hunger.

Browse courses on UN Sustainable Development Goals

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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

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Explore the FAO website to learn about their work in various areas related to the global food system.

Browse courses on Food Systems

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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

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Attend workshops or conferences to learn from experts and practitioners in the field of global food systems.

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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.

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Join a study group or online forum to discuss course topics

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Get involved in a peer-to-peer group to discuss the course materials, ask questions, and share resources.

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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

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Engage in analyzing case studies to understand best practices and challenges in implementing sustainable food system initiatives.

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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

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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

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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

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Gain hands-on experience working with organizations actively engaged in addressing global food challenges.

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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

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Create a detailed plan outlining specific actions you can take to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable food system.

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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

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Agricultural Economist

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Nutritional Epidemiologist

Nutritional Epidemiologists who are interested in food systems analysis and reducing food insecurity and malnutrition may find the course helpful.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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