Building A Sustainable, Transparent, and Humane Food System (809T)
The modern food and agricultural system significantly impacts public health and the global environment. Agricultural practices have substantial climate impacts, affect water quality, and can contribute to antibiotic resistance and the emergence of novel pathogens. Yet policymakers’ ability to consider and address these impacts has been limited by a lack of information, as agricultural operations are frequently exempted from disclosures and reporting required for other sectors.
Working closely with the Stanford RegLab and the Stanford Climate and Energy Policy Program within the Woods Institute for the Environment, students in this policy practicum will explore several issues, with a specific focus on the California context. First, students will evaluate policy and legislative approaches to improve disclosures related to Senate Bill 27 — a California law that limits the use of antibiotics among livestock. Second, students will assess how to improve transparency and disclosure at the intersection of climate and agriculture, including through potential application of California’s new climate disclosure laws.
No previous background or experience in food systems or environmental law is required. Class meetings will initially consist of both lectures and discussion of aspects of the modern food system, and then transition quarter to project-focused work and/or guest speakers. Throughout the quarter, students will have the opportunity to work closely with a variety of stakeholders, and students will likely have the opportunity to present directly to policy and legislative staff interested in implementing changes to improve food and agricultural governance in California.
Elements used in grading: Attendance, Performance, Class Participation, Written Assignments.
CONSENT APPLICATION: To apply for this course, students must submit a Consent Application Form. See the Consent Application Form for instructions and the submission deadline.
