Summer School Food Systems and Ecology: Towards Sustainable Solutions

This course is designed for a dynamic audience, including:

Bachelor and Master students in ecology, agriculture, environmental science, or related fields.

Early-career researchers and industry innovators seeking to deepen their expertise in sustainable food systems.

Professionals from food corporations, sustainability organisations, and non-profits aiming to implement sustainable food production strategies.

Officials and policymakers involved in agricultural policy, environmental regulations, and sustainable development initiatives.

The summer school attracts an international and diverse group of participants. As enrolment may include both individuals and groups from partner institutions, cohort composition can vary, and some participants may be in the minority in terms of nationality. We view this as an integral part of the international learning experience and aim to provide an inclusive and respectful environment for all. Join us for an exciting journey where technology meets agriculture and ecology, and let's cultivate a sustainable future together!

• demonstrate a fundamental understanding of transdisciplinary approaches linking ecology and food production, including boundary-crossing collaboration
• explain critical trade-offs between agricultural productivity and ecological health, such as soil degradation, water use, and biodiversity impacts
• select and apply tools or models to analyse these trade-offs in diverse contexts
• analyse outcomes of applied methods to refine strategies for sustainability and resilience
• design actionable solutions for real-world cases, integrating ecological, economic, and social dimensions
• develop transdisciplinary competence through collaborative problem-solving with peers

This immersive 9-day programme combines cutting-edge theory, hands-on practice, and collaborative innovation:

• Lectures: expert-led sessions on biodiversity, ecology, soil quality and agro-ecosystems.
• Workshops: interactive training in tools like life cycle assessment, future wheels, and farm system analysis.
• Field visits: excursions to agro-ecological farms, biodiversity reserves, and WUR's experimental sites to observe sustainable practices in action.
• Living Case project: collaborate in interdisciplinary teams to address a real-world challenge. Present your solutions to a panel of experts.

Please download the flyer for the full programme

After completing the programme, you are awarded a certificate of attendance.