The Future Food Movement (FFM) has partnered with VotesforSchools to co-create a food and climate-focused Youth Advisory Board.
The FFM describes its Youth Advisory Board as the “first-of-its-kind” in the UK that focuses specifically on the food industry’s impact on the planet.
VotesforSchools was launched in 2016 with the intention of working to reduce voter apathy and promote the youth voice.
The FFM says it is a climate-first industry network on a mission to accelerate climate action in the food industry from observation to meaningful action.
The FFM Youth Advisory Board is made up of 17 young people aged between 13-18 who have been specifically recruited by VotesForSchools.
The board will meet monthly to discuss relevant issues and each term will meet directly with senior leaders from the food and drink industry to voice their concerns, ideas, and challenges, the FFM says.
There is a great deal of climate anxiety with the younger generation so it’s our responsibility to actively listen to their concerns.
It continues that the monthly insights from the meetings will be shared with FFM business members.
Kate Cawley, founder of the Future Food Movement, said: “There is a great deal of climate anxiety with the younger generation so it’s our responsibility to actively listen to their concerns and act on them.
“Learning what young people think and feel about our food system and the role of businesses today is an area that is currently lacking informed input from younger generations.”
“It’s key to nurture tomorrow’s workforce and demonstrate the climate job opportunities that the food industry offers. If you care about the climate and society, there is no greater sector for impact than the food system.”
The FFM says the opportunity to have direct conversations with young people about the food industry’s role in the climate emergency is incredibly valuable to businesses.
Two of the biggest food and drink businesses in the UK, and FFM business members, Moy Park and Quorn Foods will be taking part in the initial Youth Advisory Board sessions.