Nutrition

The relationship between nutrition and the environment is both complex and deeply interconnected. This research field in the Department of Environmental Health explores how nutritional choices can support personal health and benefit the health of the planet.

Research in nutrition and the environment requires a multi-faceted approach encompassing:

• Studying individual dietary choices
• Understanding successful efforts towards sustainable food systems 
• Identifying broader policy changes that promote environmentally responsible practices

Because sustainable food systems are essential for a healthy environment, our research supports evidence-based practices like responsible land management, water conservation, and reduced reliance on harmful chemicals.

Studying dietary choices is also important, as plant-based diets or reduced meat consumption demonstrably lower environmental footprints, as well as potentially lessening the health impacts of environmental exposures.

Additionally, research shows that minimizing food waste throughout the supply chain conserves resources and reduces environmental burden. The evidence also reveals that supporting local and sustainable food sources fosters healthier ecosystems and promotes biodiversity.