Professor: Yizhao Zhang
4 credits
Through an interdisciplinary lens, this course equips students with the knowledge and tools to advance equitable and resilient food systems in sustainable cities and landscapes. It examines the social, economic, and environmental challenges within food systems, particularly as climate change intensifies issues related to food production, distribution, and consumption. The course explores international planning practices and policies designed to promote healthy, resilient, and just food systems, while emphasizing community-based strategies. These strategies involve leveraging local food banks and engaging volunteers to address food insecurity. Students learn methods to assess food environments and food insecurity while gaining an understanding of how to utilize data-driven approaches and innovative technologies to develop effective, localized interventions. This course incorporates a variety of hands-on activities aimed at fostering active learning, critical thinking, and the development of both writing and oral communication skills.