Prefiguring an Equitable Net-Zero Future by Mitigating Food Waste and Enhancing Food Security

Theme: Waste & Circular Economy
Summary: Food waste and food security are intertwined, particularly in the context of climate action. Food waste vastly contributes to Canada's GHG emissions, while climate change exacerbates food insecurity. This research project will address the significant food waste generated by U of T while simultaneously tackling student food insecurity. I'll investigate effective and equitable strategies to minimize food waste at the post-production stage and ensure accessible food security programs on campus. Recognizing that a significant amount of campus food is discarded while students are food insecure, I will explore avenues for redistributing surplus food to address both environmental and social concerns. I'll investigate existing barriers and propose innovative solutions to provide equitable food security initiatives on campus. By developing a proposal for effective food redistribution mechanisms, the project aims to reduce waste, promote responsible consumption, and alleviate food insecurity.
Team Members

Michael Classens
Environment
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Tamara Altarac
School of the Environment
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