Into the Tomatoverse SFIN-6021-501: Prepared for Helen Kerr & Peter Scott Morgan Bath, Pan Xie, Pranav Miglani, Travis Erickson, Yining Wang 1
Introduction ............................................................................................................................ 4 Research Team Scanning the Environment .................................................................................................. 8 Trends Initial Inquiry & Methodology ........................................................................................... 20 Grow: Dystopia of Dualities .............................................................................................. 22 Causal Layered Analysis Backcasting World building Day-In-A-Life Collapse: The Rotten Tomatoes ..................................................................................... 30 Causal Layered Analysis Backcasting World building Day-In-A-Life Transform: A Green Horizon ............................................................................................. 38 Causal Layered Analysis Backcasting World building Day-In-A-Life Discipline: The Green Rebellion ..................................................................................... 46 Causal Layered Analysis Backcasting World building Day-In-A-Life A World at Odds: Immersive Experience ...................................................................... 54 Scenario Overview Planning & Development Artifact Design In-Situ Discussion ............................................................................................................................ 68 Appendicies ......................................................................................................................... 70 References ............................................................................................................................ 72 2
In our exploration of the Circular Economy and its application to real-world systems, our team directed our attention to a crucial nexus within the global food supply chain—the cultivation and distribution of fresh tomatoes. Recognizing the inherent complexity of global food systems and the imperative need to narrow our focus, we identified fresh tomatoes as a prime candidate for examination. Tomatoes, ubiquitous in diets across the globe and representative of culinary diversity, offers a compelling entry point into discussions surrounding sustainability, resource management, and economic resilience within the Circular Economy framework. Embracing the Circular Economy definition of a system where materials never become waste and nature is regenerated, we endeavored to envision a future where fresh tomato cultivation, distribution, and consumption align with these principles. As our inquiry progressed, we recognized the need for specificity to deepen our understanding and facilitate meaningful analysis. Therefore, we made a strategic decision to center our foresight explorations within the unique context of Canada. By focusing on the Canadian fresh tomato food supply, we aimed to illuminate the intricacies of Circular Economy integration within a distinct national setting, yielding not only richer insights but also accentuate the contrasts between our various scenarios. 4 Guided by a series of pivotal questions, we delved into the nuances of Circular Economy implementation within the Canadian tomato supply chain: 1. How can the principles of the Circular Economy be effectively integrated into the cultivation, distribution, and consumption cycles of fresh tomatoes within Canada, fostering sustainability and resilience? 2. hat measures can be implemented to W enhance the sustainability and resource efficiency of tomato production in Canada, what would hinder this? By exploring these questions and delving into the complexities of economic, environmental, and social factors within the Canada’s fresh tomato food supply, our foresight project aims to uncover insights that will inform strategic decision-making and drive transformative change toward a more sustainable and resilient food system. As we venture into the realm of possibilities, envisioning the future of fresh tomato cultivation and consumption within a Circular Economy framework, we invite you to join us in exploring the boundless possibilities that the Circular Economy offers. 3. How do economic factors and market dynamics influence the viability of Circular Economy practices within the Canadian fresh tomato food supply chain? 4. In what ways do social and cultural factors shape the consumption patterns and preferences surrounding fresh tomatoes in Canada, and how can Circular Economy initiatives close or widen these disparities? 5. hat role can technological innovation W and collaborative partnerships play in advancing Circular Economy solutions within the Canadian tomato supply chain? 5
Pranav Miglani Pranav is a User Experience Designer with a passion for branding and strategy. He has mostly worked with startups and helped them grow into proper running businesses. He is driven by the endless possibilities of design, always on the lookout for enriching experiences and conversations about design and psychology. His ability to hustle his way up to achieving his goals makes him stand out in a crowd. Morgan Bath Morgan is a creative leader with a passion for fostering innovation and driving positive change. With a background rooted in the visual arts and the nonprofit sector, Morgan brings a unique blend of creativity, storytelling, strategic thinking, and project management skills to their work. Inspired by a systems approach informed by foresight, Morgan is committed to reimagining organizational structures and enhancing the experiences of those within them. Known for their collaborative spirit and sense of humor, Morgan thrives on building meaningful connections and tackling complex challenges head-on. Currently pursuing a Master of Design in Strategic Foresight and Innovation at OCAD University in Toronto, Ontario, Morgan is excited to continue pushing boundaries and shaping the future of creative innovation. Pan Xie Pan is a user experience designer and researcher with previous experience working in digital consulting and advertising. He has mainly worked with the private sector helping corporations transform their businesses to react to the challenges brought by the future’s digitalization trend. His main industry focus includes consumer goods, retail, hospitality, and healthcare. With an emphasis on digitalization, he is also interested in VR/AR technology and future use cases in people’s daily lives. 6 Travis Erickson Travis is an interdisciplinary designer with practice rooted in industrial design, sociology, and sustainability. He has worked within nonprofit and municipal sectors developing programs and strategy for art publications, radio, and children’s education. To communicate research and concepts, he works with a variety of visual design mediums as an illustration 3D modeling, and analog photography. Corrion Wang Corrion Wang, a UX/UI designer, has founded two companies based on her deep experience in Web3, finance and pet industries. One is a seed round smart pet AI agent company backed by Y Combinator China, located in Hangzhou, and the other is a customized software service company in Shanghai, focusing on WEB3, CMS/CRM system, and e-commerce system development. She has worked on a universe-themed Web3 blockchain game that ranked in the Top 5 of the OP chain in Jan 2024. She has also worked on heavyweight projects such as a carbon exchange project for China government in , a mobile NFT project for Transsion, a crypto wallet, and an advertis7 ing system for Watson.
Trends ADAPED FROM PAN XIE’S HORIZON SCAN Reimagine Food Emerging Trend: Social, Technology, Environment, Values In our exploration of the Circular Economy and its application to real-world systems, our team directed our attention to a crucial nexus within the global food supply chain—the cultivation and distribution of fresh tomatoes. Recognizing the inherent complexity of global food systems and the imperative need to narrow our focus, we identified fresh tomatoes as a prime candidate for examination. Tomatoes, ubiquitous in diets across the globe and representative of culinary diversity, offers a compelling entry point into discussions surrounding sustainability, resource management, and economic resilience within the Circular Economy framework. Embracing the Circular Economy definition of a system where materials never become waste and nature is regenerated, we endeavored to envision a future where fresh tomato cultivation, distribution, and consumption align with these principles. As our inquiry progressed, we recognized the need for specificity to deepen our understanding and facilitate meaningful analysis. Therefore, we made a strategic decision to center our foresight explorations within the unique context of Canada. By focusing on the Canadian fresh tomato food supply, we aimed to illuminate the intricacies of Circular Economy integration within a distinct national setting, yielding not only richer insights but also accentuate the contrasts between our various scenarios. Technology development enables us to reimagine what could be considered as food, choosing food sources that are more beneficial to the environment. The advancement of technology has brought more food choices to our table that provide the nutrition humans need while posing much less harm to the environment compared to the traditional farming process. These food sources (e.g. insects) might once sound weird due to the cultural taboo but appropriate ways are found to present them to the general public thanks to technological development. Mixing with the common ingredients, these unconventional food sources will gradually appear in people’s diets without the loss of appetite. Signals of change Insect Farming: The Sustainable Future of Food Production with FlyFarm The Buzzy Edible Insect Trend is Gaining Traction in the West Edible Insects: In Europe, a Growing Push for Bug-Based Food Learn About Some of Mexico’s Edible Insects. Related trends Circular Agriculture: Edible insects can be incorporated into circular agriculture systems, where they play a role in nutrient cycling to close nutrient loops and reduce the reliance on external inputs. The trend of circular agriculture and food reimagination would significantly enhance each other. Implications In the first stage, the key issue will be how to let more people accept unconventional food sources, more efforts will be given to normalize them. 8 As edible insects are existing food sources in certain cultures, the food involution will also be accompanied by a level of cultural exchange. As the global demand for protein continues to rise, edible insects offer a sustainable alternative to conventional protein sources. In the long run, the concept of food could be extended to extremely diversified as having multiple sources but also integrated into several fixed universal forms as nutrition combinations. References Igini, M. (2022, November 25). Insect Farming: The Sustainable Future of Food Production with FlyFarm. Earth.org. https://earth. org/insect-farming/ Staley, R. (2023, February 23). The Buzzy Edible Insect Trend is Gaining Traction in the West. Modern Farmer. https://modernfarmer.com/2023/02/buzzy-insect-protein-trend/ Edible Insects: In Europe, a Growing Push for Bug-Based Food. (n.d.). Yale E360. https://e360.yale.edu/features/europe-bugfarms-photo-essay Want to Try Mexico’s Protein-Rich Edible Insects? (n.d.). The Spruce Eats. https://www.thespruceeats.com/mexican-food-edible-insects-4129391 9
ADAPED FROM YAW SARKODIE’S HORIZON SCAN Waste has value too Emerging Trend: Social, Technology, Environment Identifying diverse forms of utility derived from multiple waste materials that were previously discarded to landfills or negative environmental impact overlooked. Instead of merely considering waste as a problem to be disposed of, industries, innovators, and researchers are recognizing the untapped potential within various waste streams, exploring novel ways to extract value from waste and create usefulness in society. Whether it’s turning organic waste into bioenergy, utilizing discarded electronics for valuable materials, or transforming industrial by-products into raw materials for other processes, this trend embodies a holistic approach to resource management heralds a systemic change in how societies view and Interact with their waste streams. Inspiring hope for a more resource-efficient future that leverages a product’s entire lifecycle and not only addresses environmental concerns regarding landfills. Signals of change “This company is turning heaps of plastic trash into construction building blocks”. Turning single-use plastics into “ByBlock”, similar to concrete construction blocks. “Scientists just Pulled CO2 From Air And Turned it into Cool. Breakthrough tech that locks CO2 away in solid carbon form, in this case, coal. “American Express to launch credit card made from ocean plastic. Raising awareness on plastic pollution and contributing to reduction of estimated 8 million tonnes plastic dumped in the oceans per year. “India’s Using Food Leftovers to Make Green Electricity Food waste in a biodigester to convert into biogas used to generate electricity. “Fungi, coffee, and pineapples rethinking device materials”. Greener future device products like car parts made by repurposing natural waste materials. “Could Carbon Dioxide Be Turned into jet Fuel? Experimenting chemical reactions that turn CO2 from gas-burning engines into jet fuel Related trends References Recycling Automation: Robotic systems that Identify and sort materials with remarkable accuracy and speed, increasing operational efficiency. Basu, M. (2021, September 6). India’s Using Food Leftovers to Make Green Electricity, Global Citizen. https://www.globalcitizen. org/en/content/india-generates- Eco-design and Circular Product Lifecycle: Reducing waste generation through a combination of sourcing reduction, recycling, composting and designing products for recyclability and reuse. Bhansali, R. (2021, February 21). Current Trends in Recycling and Waste Management. Organica Biotech, https://organicabiotech. com/current-trends-in-recycling- and-waste-management/ Tech integration into waste sorting: Automated sorting systems, Al, robotics, Internet of Things (IoT), smart bins are revolutionizing waste segregation. Also, monitoring bin fill levels in real-time, optimizing routes of waste collection services to reduce unnecessary pickups and carbon emissions. Electricity-from-food-waste/ Niller, E. (2020, December 22). Could Carbon Dioxide Be Turned Into Jet Fuel?. Wired. https://www. wired.com/story/could-carbon-dioxide-be-turned-into-jet-fuel/ Waste-to-energy solutions: Traditional landfilling and incineration methods are giving way to more sustainable waste-to-energy technologies which convert waste into energy like electricity or heat through anaerobic digestion, gasification, and pyrolysis. New upcycling polices and regulations: The enacting of stricter waste management regulations are pushing waste management companies to adopt more sustainable practices and invest in innovative technologies. Implications Job creation and economic opportunities: Industries involved in recycling, upcycling, and waste-to- value processes will grow, generating employment and fostering economic development. Shift in consumer behaviour and sustainable choices: Consumers will increasingly prioritize products and services that demonstrate commitment to circular practices which will influence the entire value chain to become eco-friendly. Reduced environmental impact: Landfill usage will decrease, and the negative ecological effects of certain waste streams will be mitigated as industries adopt innovative solutions to repurpose and utilize previously discarded materials. New circular business value chains: Development of closedloop systems and circular supply chains as industries increasingly incorporate recycled and waste materials into production processes. Greena. (2021, January 20). Bio-based wood-product from coconut and bagasse waste brings multiple benefits. Greening Afrika. https://www.greeningafrika.com/2021/01/20/bio-based-woodproduct-from-coconut-and-bagasse-waste-brings-multiple-benefits/ Kavilanz, P. (2022, August 3). This company is turning heaps of plastic trash into construction building blocks. CNN. https://www. cnn.com/2022/08/03/business/byfusion-waste-plastic-blocks/ index.html Kaenzig de Denus, M. (2021, June 22). All About Ferrock. Medium. https://amastgroup.medium.com/all-about-ferrockc390b27192d1 Manas, J. J. 1. (2023, November 10). 9 recycling trends to look out for in 2024. Plastic Bank. https://plasticbank.com/9-recyclingtrends-to-look-out-for-in-2024/ Nace, T. (2019, February 27). Scientists Just Pulled CO2 From Air And Turned it Into Coal. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/ trevornace/2019/02/27/scientists-just- pulled-co2-from-air-andturned-it-into-coal/?sh-394256984563. Tyrrell, J. (2024, January 15). Fungi, coffee, and pineapples – rethinking device materials. Tech HQ. https://techhq.com/2024/01/ fungi-coffee-and-pineapples-rethinking-device-materials/ Wentworth, A. (2018, June 12), American Express to launch credit card made from ocean plastic. Climate Action. https://www. climateaction.org/news/american- express-to-launch-credit-cardmade-from-ocean-plastic Rekart. (2023, October 18). The Future of Waste Management: Trends and Innovations. Medium. https://medium.com/@ rekart/the-future-of-waste-management-trends-and-innovations-eef9aaacf5e4#:-:text=Smart%20bins%2C%20waste%20 to%2D,that%20are%20shaping%20the%20industry. “Bio-based wood-product from coconut and sugar cane bagasse waste brings multiple benefits”. Newly engineered, fire retardant and anti-fungal wood better than other engineered wood which use additives and heavy chemicals. “All About Ferrock”. 5x stronger, more durable, quicker to set, more carbon neutral and eco-friendly than concrete. Made from byproducts steel dust waste and silica. 10 11
ADAPED FROM BEYZA OZMEN’S HORIZON SCAN Grassland Restoration for Biodiversity and Sustainability Growing Trend: Social, Environment The trend of ecological restoration and habitat preservation is growing, highlighting the importance of nature conservation and sustainable land management practices. A notable trend in recent times is the increasing focus on restoring grasslands in the southern Ontario region, which have been in decline primarily due to agricultural activities and urbanization. This trend reflects a broader shift towards recognizing the ecological significance of grasslands, particularly in terms of biodiversity support and carbon storage. Various restoration initiatives, often involving volunteers and conservation groups, are actively working to convert former farmlands into healthy grassland ecosystems. These efforts aim to provide essential habitats for endangered species like meadowlarks, butterflies, and native bees. Additionally, the restoration of grasslands contributes to long-term carbon sequestration, aligning with global conservation goals for addressing climate change. Community involvement plays a central role in this trend, fostering collaboration and promoting a revaluation of human-nature relationships towards more sustainable environmental stewardship. This change trend signifies a growing commitment to revitalizing grassland ecosystems for ecological conservation and sustainability. Signals of change Restoration of Ontario’s Lost Grasslands - The change trend of grassland restoration in Ontario reflects a growing awareness of the ecological importance of grasslands and a commitment to revitalizing these landscapes for biodiversity conservation and sustainability. (McIntosh, n.d.) Natural climate solutions could offset 11 per cent of Canada’s emissions by 2030: report - A significant signal from the report underscores the pivotal role of agriculture in carbon mitigation through natural climate solutions. It highlights that the agricultural sector offers substantial potential for reducing carbon pollution by implementing various management strategies, including efficient fertilizer use, cover cropping, and tree intercropping. These practices have the capacity to contribute approximately 37.4 megatons of mitigated carbon annually by 2030, representing nearly half of the total potential identified in the report. (Riley, n.d.) Trees are Overrated - Grasslands, which played a vital role in human history, are declining rapidly and 12 often neglected, posing threats to biodiversity and ecological services. (Rosen, 2022) “Preserving the world’s great expanses of grass could be essential to combatting climate change.” (Rosen, 2022) Biodiversity-Friendly Farming - The presence of seminatural vegetation in intensively used agricultural landscapes can improve pollinator diversity, particularly in areas with limited natural vegetation. This signal is illustrated by research in Californian almond orchards, emphasizing the role of seminatural habitat in supporting pollinators. (Fischer et al., 2013) Bird surveys confirm decline in some Canadian bird populations - Data from 1970 to 2016 shows significant declines in three Canadian bird groups: Shorebirds (-40%), aerial insectivores (-59%), and grassland birds (-57%), emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and conservation efforts to address these concerning trends. This signal highlights the need for balanced strategies in agricultural landscapes to protect wildlife and biodiversity. It suggests that sustainable alternatives like Eco agriculture can achieve both wildlife-friendly farming and land sparing. (The StarPhoenix, 2024) Agrobiodiversity - This signal highlights the need for balanced strategies in agricultural landscapes to protect wildlife and biodiversity. It suggests that sustainable alternatives like Eco agriculture can achieve both wildlife-friendly farming and land sparing. (Simon Asher Levin, 2013) Related trends Sustainable human development means living in harmony with nature - This signal highlights the crucial shift towards sustainable human development that emphasizes harmony with nature and fairness to all living beings. It underscores the need for a balanced approach that integrates indigenous knowledge with modern science and technology to achieve a vision of sustainable human development that respects and cooperates with the natural world. (Council Science, 2020) Researchers to explore how Canada’s grasslands could store more carbon - This signal highlights an interdisciplinary research project led by the University of Alberta with the goal of storing 32.5 mega tonnes of carbon in grasslands through grazing management techniques and genomic tools. This initiative showcases innovative efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable land management practices in Canada. (Salifou, n.d.) The art of fire: reviving the Indigenous craft of cultural burning Indigenous communities are reviving cultural burning practices to manage their lands, prevent wildfires, and promote biodiversity, after colonization criminalized the practice and led to a loss of culture. (Boutsalis, 2020) Habitat restoration at Forks of the Credit - Forks of the Credit Provincial Park is embarking on a grassland restoration project to protect and restore grassland habitat, emphasizing that not all at-risk ecosystems are forests, and highlighting the importance of diverse ecological work beyond reforestation. New upcycling polices and regulations The enacting of stricter waste management regulations are pushing waste management companies to adopt more sustainable practices and invest in innovative technologies. Implications Conservation Efforts: The increasing attention on grassland restoration will likely lead to more significant investments and actions aimed at conserving and restoring grasslands. Biodiversity and Environmental Benefits: Restoring grasslands is essential for supporting biodiversity and storing carbon, which can have positive impacts on the environment and its services. Agricultural Practices: The agricultural sector may undergo changes in practices to reduce carbon emissions. This shift could involve more sustainable approaches such as efficient fertilizer use and cover cropping. Wildlife Conservation: The decline in animal populations, particularly in grasslands, indicates the ongoing need for wildlife protection measures. Sustainable Farming: Sustainable farming practices that prioritize wildlife-friendly methods may gain popularity, potentially requiring adjustments in agricultural policies. Diverse Ecological Work: Conservation organizations should consider a holistic approach to ecological restoration, recognizing that different ecosystems require tailored strategies. Public education about the value of diverse ecological work is essential. References McIntosh, E. (n.d.). Restoring Ontario’s lost grasslands is as important as planting trees. The Narwhal. Retrieved February 2, 2024, from https://thenarwhal.ca/ontario-grasslands- restoration/ Riley, S. J. (n.d.). Natural climate solutions could offset 11 per cent of Canada’s emissions by 2030: report. The Narwhal. Retrieved February 2, 2024, from Rosen, J. (2022, July 25). Trees Are Overrated. The Atlantic. Fischer, J., Brittain, C., & Klein, A.-M. K. (2013). Biodiversity-Friendly Farming [Review of Biodiversity-Friendly Farming]. Brackets Cad. The StarPhoenix. (2024, January 28). Bird Surveys Confirm Decline in Some Canadian Bird Populations. Simon Asher Levin. (2013). Encyclopedia of biodiversity (2nd ed.). Academic Press. Council Science. (2020, July 17). Sustainable Human Development Means Living in Harmony with Nature. Salifou, O. (n.d.). Researchers to explore how Canada’s grasslands could store more carbon. Www.ualberta.ca. Retrieved February 2, 2024 Boutsalis, K. (2020, September 22). The art of fire: reviving the Indigenous craft of cultural burning. The Narwhal. Ontario Parks. (2023, March 31). Habitat Restoration at Forks of the Credit. fungi-coffee-and-pineapples-rethinking-device-materials/ Wentworth, A. (2018, June 12), American Express to launch credit card made from ocean plastic. Climate Action. https://www. climateaction.org/news/american- express-to-launch-credit-cardmade-from-ocean-plastic Rekart. (2023, October 18). The Future of Waste Management: Trends and Innovations. Medium. https://medium.com/@ rekart/the-future-of-waste-management-trends-and-innovations-eef9aaacf5e4#:-:text=Smart%20bins%2C%20waste%20 to%2D,that%20are%20shaping%20the%20industry. 13
ADAPED FROM ANUPAMA KRISHNAN’S HORIZON SCAN Implications Redesigning Food Emerging Trend: Social, Values, Environment The growing demand for organic food, sustainable farming, and increasing carbon emissions is sparking trends in regenerative agriculture. 1. Turning the tide on the way we consume food and grow th em is the need of the hour. 2. Rising temperatures across the globe is already causing climatic disturbances. These climate changes impact the agriculture and farming produce. 3. Soil erosion and drought, excessive mining, deforestation are damaging the ecosystems. 4. The video from Ellen Macarthur foundation depicting farms across Africa, Latin America, India as well as UK are indicators of how the regenerative agriculture can contribute positively towards tackling the issues of climate change. Containing the carbon within the soil and using natural manure from farm animals to fertilize the soil are a way to restore the nutrients as well as a maintaining the biodiversity. 5. Growing awareness amongst people about food pollutants, harmful effects of fertilizers, climate change disasters, spread of cancer are big triggers to change their eating habits. The food we eat shapes the landscapes around us and significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions (ellenmacarthurfoundation.org). Just by changing the way we consume and grow food can make huge changes to the current status. Soil erosion, unhealthy farming both agriculture and animal impact biodiversity, increase carbon emissions and cause climate change effects such as unseasonal rains, droughts, floods etc. Redesigning food can change this reality. Signals of change Related trends 2. The Future of Farming: Regenerative Agriculture Market Trends | market.us. A market overview of the regenerative agriculture market and its growing impact and benefits. 3. How Natural Farming Can Revive India’s Farmlands and Ensure Sustainable Agriculture. Depleted soil, climate change, unsustainable crop practices lead to low productivity. Regenerative farming practices can change this situation. 4. Environmental Impacts of Food Production: The global food production industry faces environmental concerns exacerbated by substantial food waste. 5. Transforming Tea Farming in Eastern India with Regenerative Agriculture. A move by the Tea Research institute to change the tea cultivation to promote soil health and contribute to carbon sequestration. 6. Digging Deeper: How Can Dirt Help Solve Climate Change? How the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute (CAPI) is developing policy options to improve soil health through regenerative agriculture system. 7. Suicides within India’s Agricultural Industry: How Climate Change and Government Policy are Impacting Human Rights. A report into the sad plight of farmers who due to heavy debts, unaffordable farming technologies, climate change impact on soil as well as rains resort to suicide as the last option. 8. Heat Stress to Threaten over 70% of Global Agriculture by 2045. A look at how heat will impact the health of outdoor workers on farm and the crop supply directly impacting food supply chain globally. 1. Breathe. Discover. Experience. Corporate website for Prodigal Farms, Noida, India. Growing local, seasonal farm fresh vegetables this farm (and several others that have cropped up in Delhi NCR) contribute to a new eating style that is fresh and local. 14 2. As per McKinsey “We estimate the spend on wellness products and services to be more than $450 billion in the United States and growing at more than 5 percent annually.” The wellness ecosystem comprises of nutrition amongst other things. 3. Mars Launches Farmer Income Lab to Tackle Issue of Smallholder Farmer Income. New ways to improve the income and lifestyle of smallholder farmers with support from Oxfam towards its research. 4. “New Study: US Hydropower Threatened by Increasing Droughts Due to Climate Change. Study finds that by 2050, 61% of all global hydropower dams will be in basins with extreme risks of floods, droughts or both. 5. The Plastic Inside Us: An investigative report by Orb Media to show how micro plastics have invaded the world, destroying the ocean and ocean life and infested the world’s drinking tap water. 6. The Farm to Table Movement: It’s a whole new way of eating. Shifting trends in the way people consume food. A movement popularized by restaurants and farms who wanted to promote an exclusive offering but also contribute sustainably towards the planet. 6. More and more restaurants are moving towards farm to table concept. Knowing the source of the food ingredients and raw materials is very important. It not only brings exclusivity to the products but also a sustainable way to support farmers and the environment 7. The smallholder farmers with limited income might find the initial setup cost expensive. 8. The huge retail chains selling cheap food in surplus still rule the market. 9. Good food should be made affordable and accessible to attract more people to invest in their own health as well as save the planet. References Macarthur foundation, E. (n.d.). Circular design for food: Six short stories. How to Build a Circular Economy. https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/videos/circular-design-for-food-six-short-stories More, A. (2023, October 23). The future of farming: Regenerative Agriculture Market Trends: Market.us. LinkedIn. https://www. linkedin.com/pulse/future-farming-regenerative-agriculture-market-trends-aboli-more-tg0mf/ Buckingham, Dr. D. (2019, December 5). Digging deeper: How can dirt help solve climate change?. Innovating Canada. https://www. innovatingcanada.ca/environment/digging-deeper-how-can-dirthelp-solve-climate-change/ Saboo, A. M., & Sharma, A. (2023, October 16). Suicides within India’s agricultural industry: How climate change and government policy are impacting human rights. Oxford Human Rights Hub. https://ohrh.law.ox.ac.uk/suicides-within-indias-agricultural-industry-how-climate-change-and-government-policy-are-impacting-human-rights/#:~:text=Over%20650%20farmers%20have%20committed,increasing%20number%20of%20these%20incidents. Middleton, J., & Nichols, W. (2022, September 7). Heat stress to threaten over 70% of global agriculture by 2045. Verisk Maplecroft. https://www.maplecroft.com/insights/analysis/heat-stress-tothreaten-over-70-of-global-agriculture-by-2045/#:~:text=by%20 Jess%20Middleton%20and%20Will,according%20to%20our%20 new%20research. Corporate website. (n.d.). Local. Seasonal. sustainable. The Prodigal Farms. https://www.prodigalfarms.com/ Callaghan, S., L, M., Medalsy, J., Pione, A., & Teichner, W. (2022, September 19). Still feeling good: The US wellness market continues to boom. McKinsey & Company. https://www.mckinsey.com/ industries/consumer-packaged-goods/our-insights/still-feelinggood-the-us-wellness-market-continues-to-boom Maclean, V. (2017, July 10). Mars launches farmer income lab to tackle issue of smallholder ... https://www.mars.com/news-andstories/press-releases/farmer-income-lab-launch World Wildlife Fund. (2022, February 24). New study: US hydropower threatened by increasing droughts due to climate change. WWF. https://www.worldwildlife.org/press-releases/new-study-ushydropower-threatened-by-increasing-droughts-due-to-climatechange Tyree, C., & Morrison, D. (n.d.). The invisibles. Orb Media. https:// orbmedia.org/the-invisibles Diane, H. (2023, March 24). The farm to table movement- it’s a whole new way of eating. Altametrics. https://altametrics.com/ blog/the-farm-to-table-movement-its-a-whole-new-way-of-eating. html Singh, I. (2023, July 21). How natural farming can revive India’sfarmlands and ensure sustainable agriculture. The Wire. https://thewire.in/agriculture/how-natural-farming-can-revive-indias-farmlands-and-ensure-sustainable-agriculture Ridge, M. (n.d.). Environmental impacts of food production. Maple Ridge. https://www.mapleridge.ca/1776/Food-Production#:~:text=Food%20waste%20produces%203.3%20billion,after%20the%20 US%20and%20China. Hopkins, M. (2023, December 15). Transforming tea farming in eastern India with Regenerative Agriculture. AgriBusiness Global. https://www.agribusinessglobal.com/sustainability/transforming-tea-farming-in-eastern-india-with-regenerative-agriculture/ 15
ADAPED FROM LAURA MARIN HURTADO’S HORIZON SCAN Climate Change Puts the World’s Food Security at Risk Growing Trend: Social, Environment Higher temperatures, extreme and irregular weather patterns are impacting the world’s food supply. Implications References 1. Governments could create legislation that limits the use of farmland only to the crops that are climate-change resilient to force farmers to diversify these. Ashar, S. (2024, January 17). Snowless mountain caps paint a grave image for Global Food Security. The Futures Centre. https:// www.thefuturescentre.org/signal/snowless-mountain-caps-painta-grave-image-for-global-food-security/ 2. Government funding could support new entrants to the Agrifood market by supporting crops and products that are more sustainable and in alignment with SDG’s. 3. Through geo-political alliances and trade agreements, Canada can provide support for these new foods and products to be exported to new markets. 4. Also, the government could impose export bans on food producers in the country and force them to sell to internal consumers and/or companies in areas/provinces impacted by low food availability. 5. For modern insect farming in Canada, cities and municipalities need to ensure that organic waste meets the quality standard to be recycled. Governments have underinvested in the research and development of climate–resistant agriculture, making this a vulnerability to our food production’s sustainability. Also, geopolitical tensions and worldwide impacting events like the war in Ukraine and COVID-19 have had a devastating effect on food supply chains. Concerned consumers and citizens are supporting alternative crops and exploring new foods that could help with the sustainability of food production worldwide. In addition, consumers concerned with current food production practices are testing protein alternatives that have a lesser impact on the environment or innovative products created from unimaginable natural sources. Signals of change Gantz, J. (2022, November 10). MyForest foods mybacon: The 200 best inventions of 2022. Time. https://time.com/collection/ best-inventions-2022/6225174/myforest-foods-mybacon/ Heinz, M., Galetti, V., & Holzkämper, A. (2023, November 10). How to find alternative crops for climate-resilient regional food production. Agricultural Systems. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308521X23001981#:~:text=4.1.-,Climatic%20suitability,%2C%20buffalo%20 gourd%2C%20and%20borage. Nowell, C. (2022, August 20). Diet for a hotter climate: Five plants that could help feed the world. The Guardian. https://www. theguardian.com/environment/2022/aug/20/ancient-crops-climate-crisis-amaranth-fonio-cowpeas-taro-kernza Igini, M. (2023, July 19). Insect farming: The sustainable future of food production. Earth.Org. https://earth.org/insect-farming/ 1. ‘Farm-grown Meatless Mycelium’: MyForest Foods, a company from Green Island, NY developed MyBacon, a planted based bacon grown in a laboratory from mushrooms and cooked in coconut oil that tastes like real bacon. (Gantz, 2022) 2. ‘Snowless mountain caps paint a grave image for global food security’: Increasingly warmer winters and a decline in snow accumulation are causing less water availability in regions around the world and are affecting patterns of agriculture. (Ashar, 2024) For our planet. (2023, October 16). [The Protein Challenge title]. Protix. https://protix.eu/for-our-planet/#insects_are_the_solution Related trends 1. ‘Climate crisis could contribute to a global food shortage’: The US envoy on food security warns that globally crop yields are projected to decline 3-12% because of global warming with a pressing need to produce 50-60% more food by 2050. (Chan, 2023) Bhatti, M. (2022, May 2). The war in Ukraine and its impacts on Europe’s agricultural industry. The Futures Centre. https://www. thefuturescentre.org/signal/the-war-in-ukraine-and-its-impactson-europes-agricultural-industry/ 2. ‘Green Crab Flavoured Whisky’: Tamworth Distilling, in collaboration with the University of New Hampshire, have created a whiskey from the invasive species of Green Crabs, which had been a problem to New England’s coastal ecosystems. (Pomranz, 2022) 3. ‘Diet for a hotter climate’: Farmers around the world have been planting rice, wheat and corn as the world’s main source of food, but this practice is now under heavy threat due to climate change. Scientists hope that farmers can now see amaranth, fonio, cowpeas, taro, and kernza as crop alternatives in response to temperatures rising. (Nowell, 2022) 4. ‘The protein crisis’ - To help with the sustainability of food production, estimated to cover the needs of a population of 10 billion by 2050, new farming methods are required. Modern insect farming can thrive on food waste and this process generates 90% less greenhouse gases. The insect protein market is expected to grow increasingly rapidly in the next decade. (Igini, 2023) 16 3. ‘Insects are the solution’: High-quality insect protein developed by Protix, a Dutch company, is a product suited for pet food and fish feed. In addition, its production generates a smaller carbon footprint, using less water and resources than other products. (For our planet, 2023) 4. ‘Cricket Protein powder for humans’: Crickets have been a forgotten superfood and now you can add a scoop of this protein powder to your meals, as it is the most nutritious and sustainable protein source in the world. (Why cricket protein powder? n.d.) 17
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