The Foodscapes Collective

Why I Started the Foodscapes Collective

Hello, and welcome to the Foodscapes Collective! My name is Joel Matheson, and I’m excited to share the story behind this project and why I believe it will be an important resource for anyone passionate about food systems, agriculture, and sustainable development around the world.

My journey with food and agriculture began during my time as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Jamaica, where I worked as a Climate Smart Agriculture Facilitator alongside smallholder farmers. I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the resilience and innovation of communities striving to improve their livelihoods in the face of climate challenges. This experience profoundly shaped my understanding of the complexities of food systems and deepened my commitment to working in this field. It also reinforced a key lesson: food is more than sustenance—it’s a powerful lens through which we can understand cultures, economies, and the health of our planet.

After returning from the Peace Corps, I pursued a master’s degree in Global Studies with a specialization in Food Studies at the University of Oregon. My academic research focused on the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, food sovereignty, and the social dynamics of agriculture. My education, combined with my global experiences, strengthened my desire to create a platform where stories, research, and innovations in food systems could be explored and shared widely.

What Is the Foodscapes Collective?

The Foodscapes Collective is a dynamic, evolving platform designed to connect people with the stories and insights shaping our global food systems. It is a mixture between a blog and a news resource, featuring thoughtful articles, interviews with changemakers, and stories about innovative practices and technologies in agriculture and food sustainability. Our mission is to explore and amplify the diverse landscape of food and agriculture—from cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices to the critical issues of food security and sovereignty.

Here’s what you can expect from the Foodscapes Collective:

Insightful Articles: Deep dives into topics related to sustainability, agriculture development, food policy, and more.

Interviews with Changemakers: Conversations with individuals and organizations making a positive impact in the world of food and agriculture.

Global Perspectives: Stories from different regions highlighting local solutions, traditional practices, and innovations that address global challenges.

A Resource for Learning: Content designed to inform, inspire, and empower individuals interested in food systems, whether they are students, professionals, or curious readers.

Why Foodscapes Matter

Foodscapes represent the interconnected web of food production, culture, and environment that shapes our world. By exploring these intersections, we gain a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing global food systems. The Foodscapes Collective aims to be a space for conversation and collaboration, where we can highlight best practices, celebrate successes, and foster dialogue about the future of food.

A Vision for the Future

I believe that knowledge is a catalyst for action. By sharing diverse perspectives and stories, the Foodscapes Collective hopes to inspire more people to think critically about food, connect with innovative ideas, and engage in efforts to create a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient food system. Whether you are a farmer, a researcher, a policy advocate, or simply someone passionate about what ends up on your plate, this platform is for you.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. I invite you to explore, share, and connect with the content we create. Together, we can build a community that celebrates the power of food to shape our lives and our world.

Welcome to the Foodscapes Collective!