Plant Futures at Climate Week: A Turning Point for Food Systems

Last month, our team had the privilege of being invited to speak at Climate Week NYC, and it felt like a turning point for the future of food systems. Samantha Derrick, Executive Director, joined a panel on the importance of cultural shifts in normalizing a plant-rich food system, where she highlighted the collective impact of the Plant Futures community in driving a more sustainable food system across our campus networks.

At the launch of Tilt Collective, and during Food Day at Climate Week, discussions centering plant-rich food systems took center stage, with various global leaders ?discussing ?food systems transformation as a key lever in tackling climate change. This event reinforced the belief that students and universities have the power to drive real change in these areas.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners and hosts of the event—Farmed Animal Funders, Tilt Collective, Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Bezos Earth Fund—for their leadership in supporting ?the transition to a plant-centered food system to address the climate crisis. These organizations have been critical for pushing food systems to the forefront of the climate movement, and we’re honored to continue building on this momentum as the representatives of next generation leaders and Universities

Sustaining Momentum Beyond Food Day

While Food Day was a key moment in showcasing how sustainable food systems can drive climate solutions, we know it’s just the beginning. Climate action needs to be more than just a single event—it requires ongoing, global, and cross-sector efforts.

As we move forward, one thing is clear: young leaders are key to building a sustainable future. Students are stepping up to create real solutions in both food systems and climate action, and higher education institutions are playing a crucial role in empowering them to do so.

At Plant Futures, we are committed to keeping this conversation alive throughout the year, empowering students to lead their universities and communities in making sustainable choices that benefit both people and the planet.

Thanks again to our incredible partners for their support in elevating the connection between food systems and climate action. Together, we’re making progress toward a future that’s not only sustainable but also just and inclusive.

Insights and Inspiration from the Conference on Animal Rights in Europe (CARE 2024)

From September 12th to 15th, 2024, the Plant Futures team had the opportunity to attend the Conference on Animal Rights in Europe (CARE) in Warsaw, Poland. This was a meaningful milestone for us as it marked our first time attending CARE, an international conference that has been building connections and inspiring advocacy groups across Europe since 2016.

“Being able to share about the different strategies and actions happening in Mexico as we are building our Plant Futurists’ network there, was a great reminder that change is always happening in the ways we least expect it. It really puts into perspective how necessary it is to just talk to one another about our work and experiences”, said Darleen about their time at CARE.

For us at Plant Futures, this experience was a grounding reminder that transforming our food system is truly an international effort, and our collective mission grows stronger when we work together across borders.

What’s Next?

The journey continues! Stay connected with your local Plant Futures chapter and be on the lookout for upcoming events, opportunities, and ways to get involved in creating sustainable food systems and driving climate action in your community.

Thank you for your ongoing support in building a better, more sustainable future.

The Plant Futures Team