7 September 2017

Linking global citizenship to food for a better future

What does it mean to be a global citizen in today’s world? How can food be considered a key factor in a cutting-edge approach to such a topic?

Global citizenship is the result of social, cultural and political elements able to create a sense of belonging and strongly connect humanity as a whole. In our globalized world in which everybody is linked, being a global citizen is crucial to develop a critical approach and reshape a better future for all in terms of access to food, resources distribution and environmental sustainability.

Food connects people and places very far away from each other, through production, distribution and consumption

happening on a global scale. A sustainable food system is at the basis of global sustainability: by taking action on food, we can have a wider impact, ensuring the protection of our Planet; tackling health issues; and improving social conditions. Among all the economic sectors, agriculture is the largest emitter of greenhouse gases. Its use of land and water has serious consequences on our environment(deforestation, loss of biodiversity, water pollution).  Global citizenship can help bring about change.

It is all about education starting from a very young age: understanding issues, developing shared values and actively fighting global paradoxes. We need to feel the pressure of the burning issues affecting our planet in order to weigh less on our future. The lighthouse to pursue a concrete changing are the 17 Goals of the United Nation’s 2030 Agenda (the so-called Sustainable Development Goals, or SDGs). They are all in some way linked to food.

That is the reason why BCFN Foundation aims to empower young students and researchers, inviting them to raise their voice. Along the year, BCFN Alumni got in touch with a number of international networks with the purpose of sharing knowledge and perspectives to accelerate the transition of the food system. The next event in this roadmap will be the webinar “Global Citizens for the Future of Food”, to be held on September 21, from 4.00 to 5.00 pm CEST.

We invite everybody to spread the voice and join the discussion: www.barillacfn.com/webinar.

Authors

Alessio Mennecozzi

Project Manager, Barilla Center for Food & Nutrition Foundation