Seafood is more than just a source of delicious meals—it’s a cornerstone of global nutrition and food systems. But as concerns about sustainability grow, how does Generation Z, often called the "sustainability generation," view seafood’s role in feeding the planet while preserving its ecosystems?
A peer-reviewed research study published in Foods explores these important questions, uncovering fascinating insights into how Gen Z values sustainability, how it shapes their perceptions and consumption of seafood, and what that means for how they think about creating sustainable food systems.
What Did the Research Discover?
This study, conducted through focus groups of Gen Z undergraduate students enrolled in agriculture courses at the University of Georgia, revealed a deep connection between students' personal experiences (such as family traditions and geographic location) and their seafood consumption habits. Key themes like sustainability awareness, limited knowledge about seafood’s environmental impact, and skepticism about regulations emerged as critical factors influencing their choices.
The research highlighted that, while Gen Z recognizes the importance of sustainable practices, there is often a gap in understanding how to make informed, environmentally friendly choices and understand food systems—such as the seafood system—as a whole.
These insights suggest a need for teaching tools that not only emphasize sustainability but also provide clear, actionable steps for students to understand the complexity of global food systems.
Why This Matters
With seafood playing a critical role in global food security and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, equipping the next generation to navigate these complexities is essential.
The study's findings underscore the importance of integrating discussions about systems thinking into educational settings, focusing on practical ways students can make a difference—whether through mindful consumption, advocating for better industry practices, or simply considering the myriad of factors at play.
What’s Next?
As educators, policymakers, and industry leaders consider these findings, the priority becomes bridging the food systems knowledge gap for Gen Z.
By creating programs that connect climate change concepts with real-world food and agricultural applications, the STEPS program is empowering students to become active participants in shaping a more sustainable future for our planet’s food systems.
Curious to dive deeper into the research? You can explore the full article here: The Influence of Sustainability on Identities and Seafood Consumption.
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