University of Leicester calls for collaboration to boost sustainability of local food

This week’s Food and Land Use Summit will map the journey of Leicester and Leicestershire’s food to its tables and examine the role of technology and knowledge in making the UK region’s food sustainable.

Organised by Knownet, the summit is a partnership between the University of Leicester, Leicester City Council and Leicestershire County Council, with the aim of fostering a collaborative approach to sustainability, net zero and nature restoration.

Keynote speakers include Nada Saidi, head of analysis and research of the Land Use Framework Team at the Department for Environmental, Food and Rural Affairs; Georgie Barber, programme lead, Land Use and Countryside at the Food, Farming and Countryside Commission; and Emma Piercy, head of climate change and energy policy at the Food and Drink Federation.

Dr Francesca Faedi, principal investigator for Knownet from the University of Leicester School of Business, commented: “Food production and land use are major contributors to climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion. Addressing these challenges at a local level is crucial for creating resilient, sustainable systems that align with national and international climate goals, including Agenda 2030.

“The symposium highlights the urgent need to rethink how food is produced, distributed and consumed to build a more sustainable future for Leicester and Leicestershire. Food and land management are central to achieving net zero and nature recovery, and this event offers a unique opportunity for businesses, policymakers, and the community to engage with cutting-edge research and innovative solutions.”

The role played by the space sector in monitoring land use, tracking deforestation and assessing agricultural sustainability through satellite data is apparently becoming increasingly essential.

“By integrating insights from business, space and environmental science, this symposium will explore how Leicester and Leicestershire can develop innovative strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance food security, support sustainable farming and restore natural ecosystems,” the University of Leicester stated.

“Increasing access and availability of nutritious and affordable food are key elements in the County and City’s Food Plans,” said Susan Holden, project manager for public health at Leicester City Council. “It is a welcomed opportunity to work with the University to highlight how our use of land locally and regionally can support sustainable food production.”