What is sustainability, how does it relate to food and can we really make a difference?

According to Foresight, sustainability within food means “a method of production using processes and systems that are non-polluting, conserve non-renewable energy and natural resources, are economically efficient, are safe for workers, communities and consumers, and do not compromise the needs of future generations”. There is a lot to unpack and a lot of consider there, but it makes total sense and it where we need to be moving towards.  

Over a quarter of the UK workforce come from the food and drink industry, so with such a large number of jobs and livelihoods relying on the stability and longevity of the industry, we need to make sure it is here in 10, 20 and 50 years time. 

Now, there are things we need to consider and things we need to change in order to make that a reality, and that foist come without challenges. There is so much research going on into veganism and artificial meat, how we use plastic and how we responsibly source foods and ingredients from this county and beyond, but we need to remain open to new ideas, new ways of working and new ways of collaborating too, so we can move this forward as a collective. 

Sustainability is one of the core pillars of our course with Stoke on Trent College. We explore and learn about how we can make this industry future proof, working together with science, maths and other industries too to solidify the future and build foundations that will last our lifetime and beyond.

If sustainability is something you are passionate about and you would like to be the change, find out more about our course here. It is one year long and will give you the tools you need and the freedom to explore, we would love for you to join us.