’Living within the planetary boundaries is humanity’s greatest challenge’

The opening of the academic year on 5 September is themed planetary boundaries. But, what are they? How can you study them, and can you use them in your day-to-day life? Today, episode 4: Sjoukje Heimovaara. Sjoukje Heimovaara, the newly appointed president of WUR, became increasingly aware of the role of our food system in putting pressure on our planetary boundaries in her previous position as director of Agrotechnology and Food Sciences Group. 'I learned that food systems have a considerable impact on the planet, which implies that this is also where solutions are to be found. At least one-third of our greenhouse gas emissions can be addressed through the food system. If we were to significantly reduce food waste and consume far fewer meat products, we could really achieve a better climate without too many sacrifices.' 'I believe that living within the planetary boundaries is humanity's greatest challenge. And, WUR can make, and already makes, a difference.