Food is the cornerstone of our existence, shaping not only our health and well-being but also the very fabric of society—it affects our health, culture, and our planet. Yet, the profound impact of our food choices often goes unnoticed, from the staggering heaps of discarded food clogging up our landfills to how our dietary choices can influence climate change and the health of ecosystems. However, students are raising awareness around this critical issue to sow the seeds of change for a more sustainable future.
Natalia De Los Rios ’27, the project chairperson for the Climate Coalition, reflected on her journey into the realm of sustainable food systems. She shared that she observed the staggering amount of food waste and the prevalent issue of food insecurity in her community during high school. Her experience drove her to address the inherent inefficiencies and inequities of the food system. “It just opens your eyes to the whole issue of how unsustainable our current food [is] and how inequitable our current food systems are,” she remarked.
Recognizing this pressing need for change, De Los Rios and other Harvard students have come together to address this issue. Harvard University has diverse clubs and initiatives dedicated to addressing pressing environmental issues and promoting sustainability. From the Climate Coalition to the Harvard University Sustainable Energy Group (HUSEG), these organizations offer platforms for students to engage with and tackle challenges related to climate change, energy conservation, and environmental justice. The Green Medicine Initiative draws attention to the effects of climate change on human health and promotes greener practices. The Clean Energy Group also focuses on accelerating the clean energy transition through interdisciplinary education and climate action. These various initiatives empower Harvard students to take action, raise awareness, and drive positive change toward a more sustainable and equitable future.
To reach an even larger audience, students launched the Food 4 Thought Festival. This initiative is “a student-led initiative that invites the Harvard community to consider the impact of its food choices on the 4 Pillars of Concern: Personal Health, Public Health, Animal Rights, and Environmental Justice.”
With over 700 students from 50 universities across six continents expected to attend, the festival represents a global convergence of minds passionate about reimagining the future of food systems.
Navin Durbhakula ’25, the initiative’s co-founder, said “Our ultimate goal is to center around…environmental justice, animal welfare, public health, and food security.” Jack Towers ’25, the design and publicity member for Food 4 Thought, added the emphasis of “breaking down some of the barriers or stigmas around plant-based diets.”
Durbhakula further explained the event’s role of fostering dialogue among diverse individuals. “The goal is to really bring together a community of people and to build it out and continue to establish connections with students…and the various universities working in this area.”
The festival offers various engaging events and activities focused on reimagining the future of food systems spread across three days. The first day kicks off with a keynote address by Dr. David Kaplan and Dr. Sparsha Saha. Attendees will find themselves delving into discussions on agricultural justice, food law, and career pathways in fixing the food system. Delectable treats await at the World Cultural Food Festival, complemented by live cooking demonstrations from prolific experts. Workshops throughout the festival will empower participants with tools for professional growth and coalition building. The event’s final day culminates in an awards ceremony and exclusive field visits to Tufts University and Harvard, offering insights into cutting-edge food research.
For those considering attending the Food 4 Thought Festival, Durbhakula said, “It will be an incredible opportunity to meet students from all over the world.” Towers shared, “If you’re someone who eats or likes to eat food, you should come; if you’re someone who cares about the climate and your role in the world, you should come.”
With the promise of an empowering experience, the Food 4 Thought Festival allows students to go on a journey of meaningful action through discovery and collaboration. It is a testament to student-led movements’ power in shaping a better world. Towers reflected, “It’s been remarkable to see how much of this project has been able to take off just as a result of student initiative.”
With many like-minded people together, no challenge is too large. Durbhakula said, “We do have the power to make a difference.” Joining Food 4 Thought helps create a more sustainable future by educating others about making conscious food choices and advocating for change in our food systems. By joining forces and raising awareness through initiatives like Food 4 Thought, individuals can contribute significantly to shaping a healthier and more sustainable world.
Mishelle Wiewiora ’27 (mwiewiora@college.harvard.edu) loves to participate in making a green impact while enjoying a side of greens.