ZNE at the conference „Towards New Food Systems“ in Berlin
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| Image author: Toni Meier | Bildrechte: Eleonore Heil |
Dr Eleonore Heil, member of the ZNE and head of the Working group on Nutritional Ecology at JLU Giessen, took part in the ‘Towards New Food Systems’ conference. The conference on ‘Rethinking Food and Nutrition Systems’ took place from 28 to 30 October 2025 in Berlin.
Dr Heil presented the research results of her working group in a talk entitled ‘System model “Sustainable food production” - nutritional-ecological factors and their relationships’. Her research focuses on modelling food systems to promote a better understanding of their complexity and to encourage the development of sustainable solutions. This is in response to the growing world population, the increase in diet-related diseases, and the resulting environmental, economic and social impacts. The qualitative model presented was developed using the Nutrimod method and validated by a Delphi study involving 54 experts. The model grouped 60 factors into 15 thematic clusters, visualising their interrelationships. One example of this is the impact of livestock farming on the climate and its consequences for agriculture and food security.
The model aims to foster a shared understanding among stakeholders, facilitate a transition to a more sustainable food system, and encourage integrative problem-solving.