A new 10-month program at U of G will provide graduate students from across Canada with experiential learning opportunities in net-zero food systems, sustainable agriculture and food marketing.  

Through the Loblaw Net-Zero Food Systems Challenge, students explore how to create a net-zero food system in Canada, and ways to drive adoption and demand for net-zero agricultural products for farmers and consumers. The Ontario Agricultural College, Arrell Food Institute and Loblaw Cos. Ltd. are partnering on the initiative. Net-zero initiatives either create no greenhouse gas emissions or offset their emissions by capturing carbon before it is released into the air. 

Gaining first-hand experience to solve real-world problems 

Through the program, students will develop research and policy-relevant plans and investigate: 

• How food retailers can work with others in the value chain to encourage farmers to adopt regenerative practices that absorb greenhouse gases. This includes exploring how these practices may help in creating soil-carbon measurement, verification and reporting tools for carbon markets. 
• How food retailers can encourage consumer awareness and purchasing of climate-responsible products farmed with net-zero practices. 

Throughout the program, students will receive training and coaching from industry experts, community groups and academic partners, including U of G members. 

Applications open until Jan. 13

Applications are now open, and those interested are encouraged to apply by Jan. 13, 2023.  

In February, successful applicants will attend a workshop where they will meet their colleagues, experts and Loblaw leaders.  

To apply, visit: www.arrellfoodinstitute.ca/net-zero-challenge 

For more information, contact thechallenge@uoguelph.ca. 

Adapted from Arrell Food Institute.