Discussion Courses - Menu for the Future
a six-session discussion guide exploring the connection between food and sustainability
Purpose:
- To explore food systems and their impacts on culture, society and ecological systems.
- To gain insight into agricultural and individual practices that promote personal and ecological well-being.
- To consider your role in creating or supporting sustainable food systems.
Session Themes:
- What’s Eating America?: Given the array of food choices and advice, eating in modern industrial society can be wrought with confusion, contradictions and anxiety. Session One considers the effects of modern industrial eating habits on culture, society and the Earth.
- Anonymous Food: Session Two traces the historical shift from family farms to industrial agriculture to present day questions surrounding GMOs and industrial organics. The session examines the ecological and economic impacts that have accompanied the changes in how we grow and prepare food.
- Farming for the Future: Session Three explores emerging food system alternatives, highlighting sustainable growing practices and the benefits of small farms and urban food production. The session considers how individuals can make choices that lead to a more sustainable food supply.
- You Are What You Eat: Session Four explores food systems from a human health perspective. The session considers the influences that shape our choices and food policies from the fields to Capitol Hill, and the implications for our health and well-being.
- Toward a Just Food System: The readings in Session Five examine issues of hunger, equity, and Fair Trade. The session considers the role that governments, communities and individuals can play in addressing these issues to create a more just food system.
- Choices for Change: Individuals and communities are discovering the benefits of choosing local, seasonal, and sustainably grown and produced foods. Session Six offers inspiration and practical advice in taking steps to create more sustainable food systems.
*This course contains an optional seventh session Celebration where participants can explore follow up actions.
"Food is our common ground, a universal experience."
-- James Beard
The Canadian Earth Institute supports the commitment of individuals who seek to protect the earth.
389 Atkins Avenue, Victoria, B.C. V9B 3A1 250.727.9163 Email
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