University of Copenhagen
Transformation of the Global Food System
University of Copenhagen

Transformation of the Global Food System

Taught in English

Some content may not be translated

24,360 already enrolled

Course

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals

4.8

(913 reviews)

Beginner level
No prior experience required
11 hours to complete
3 weeks at 3 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

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6 quizzes

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There are 6 modules in this course

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.

What's included

1 video4 readings1 quiz1 discussion prompt

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.

What's included

5 videos1 quiz1 discussion prompt

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.

What's included

3 videos2 readings1 quiz1 discussion prompt

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.

What's included

3 videos1 reading1 quiz1 discussion prompt

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!

What's included

4 videos1 reading1 quiz1 discussion prompt

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.

What's included

1 video1 reading1 quiz1 discussion prompt

Instructor

Instructor ratings
4.8 (393 ratings)
Katherine Richardson
University of Copenhagen
2 Courses112,920 learners

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Recommended if you're interested in Environmental Science and Sustainability

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