Food Production

Crops possibly can be grown with significantly less water by altering a gene involved in regulating photosynthesis, according to new research by a team that included UC Berkeley scientists. Berkeley professor Krishna Niyogi, chair of the Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, and his lab found that a increasing a protein called PsbS improved the water-use efficiency of plants — the ratio of carbon dioxide entering the plant to water escaping — by 25 percent without significantly sacrificing photosynthesis or yields. That means the plants were able to thrive on 25 percent less water. Series: "UC Berkeley News" [Agriculture] [Show ID: 33981]

Agriculture today is extraordinarily productive, although sadly many people are chronically hungry, malnourished or obese. And the way we farm also takes an increasing toll on the environment. Farming emits a third of all greenhouse gases and uses 70 percent of freshwater resources. It is a major contributor to deforestation and biodiversity loss, and has led to the loss of soil fertility in agricultural lands. How can we produce enough food for the future while protecting the planet? Berkeley conservation biologist Claire Kremen suggests practices that can maintain productivity while using less energy, water and pesticides. Series: "Cal Future Forum: Our Changing World" [Science] [Agriculture] [Show ID: 33077]

In collaboration with the UC San Diego Center for Integrative Nutrition, the Berry Good Food Foundation convenes a panel of experts to discuss the rise of comprehensive medicine and nutritional healing to treat chronic disease and maintain general well-being. Series: "Wellbeing " [Health and Medicine] [Agriculture] [Show ID: 33486]

Nationally prominent chefs, fishermen, academics, and activists call on consumers to choose local species of fish when possible to protect the longterm vitality of harvested seafood and the wellbeing of the oceans. Tommy Gomes, fishmonger, speaks on the marketing and perceptions of seafood. Series: "Climate Solutions " [Public Affairs] [Science] [Agriculture] [Show ID: 33150]

With more than 20 years of natural and organic business experience and a sharp focus on sustainability and social responsibility, UC Davis alumnus John Foraker was the long-time president of Annie’s, Inc., a leader in organic and natural foods. He transitioned into a new role as Chairman of the Bunny, where he will continue to work with General Mills (which acquired Annie’s under its stock symbol "BNNY") and the Annie’s Operating Unit to drive leadership in company culture, organic and regenerative agriculture, and strategy support.

He’s also CEO and co-founder, with A-list celebrity Jennifer Garner, of a new organic baby food startup - Once Upon a Farm. Series: "UC Davis Graduate School of Management's Executive Speakers and Special Events" [Agriculture] [Business] [Show ID: 33066]

Calla Rose Ostrander of Kiss the Ground shares insights into habitat conservation. Ostrander promotes the use of managed grazing to bring about flourishing habitats and species. Series: "UCTV Prime" [Public Affairs] [Agriculture] [Show ID: 32984]

Large and growing food movements in the United States seek policy changes to promote healthier and more environmentally sound food choices. Marion Nestle reflects on recent progress. Series: "UC Berkeley Graduate Lectures" [Public Affairs] [Health and Medicine] [Agriculture] [Show ID: 32980]

The paradox of today’s global food system is that food insecurity or obesity threaten the health and welfare of half the world’s population. Underlying these problems is an overabundant and overly competitive food system in which companies are forced to expand market channels to meet corporate growth targets. The contradiction between the goals of public health and food corporations has led to a large and growing food movement in the United States, which seeks policy changes to promote healthier and more environmentally sound food choices. Marion Nestle considers the cultural, economic, and institutional factors that influence food policies and choices, and the balance between individual and societal responsibility for those choices. Series: "UC Berkeley Graduate Lectures" [Public Affairs] [Health and Medicine] [Agriculture] [Show ID: 32228]

Veteran labor activist Dolores Huerta joins food journalist Rose Hayden-Smith and others for an animated discussion on why food insecurity still exists in many communities and what is being done to increase access to healthy, organic food. Farmers, healthcare providers and urban planners bring their insights to this conversation as they share stories of connecting people with the food they need to thrive. This program is the fifth in a Future Thought Leaders series on food sustainability presented by the Berry Good Food Foundation. Convened by BGFF Founder Michelle Ciccarelli Lerach, speakers include Daron “Farmer D” Joffe of Coastal Roots Farm, Dave Murphy of Food Democracy Now!, Paul Watson of the Global Action Research Center, Fernando Sañudo of the Vista Community Clinic and Jillian Barber of Sharp HealthCare.

Series: "American Politics" [Public Affairs] [Science] [Agriculture] [Show ID: 31996]

With an ever growing population some high-tech approaches for sustainable agriculture are being tested. Join Kristen Simoes as she explores the world of crops and agriculture science. Series: "9 Billion Mouths to Feed: The Future of Farming" [Science] [Agriculture] [Show ID: 32150]