Food Planet Future – 5 questions with the author, Robert Dash
We had the opportunity to sit down with Robert Dash, the author of Food Planet Future, to delve into the urgent yet inspiring themes of his book. In this interview, Robert shares some of the moments that shaped his work, the crucial connections between food systems and climate change, and practical steps we can all take to support a sustainable future. Here are five thought-provoking questions with the creative mind behind this book.
1. Why does the world need this book?
Awe, wonder, and creativity are essential to address grim issues like climate change and biodiversity loss. Enchantment with nature connects us and inspires our stewardship. Food Planet Future combines art and the latest research to show how our diets and the way we grow our food can have a positive impact on these problems. Motivation to change is driven more by success than by dread.
2. What’s the most fascinating thing that you’ve learnt while writing this book?
Land use, or misuse, is a major climate change driver, sharing the blame with the burning of fossil fuel. Restoration of cropland soils, forests, grasslands, and wetlands can help regulate water cycle and climate patterns.
3. Which of the extracts or spreads from the book are your personal favourite? Why?
I made the olive leaf micrograph on pages 134-135 after a long day working on the scanning electron microscope. I was exhausted and ready to leave when I got my first look at the leaf. I was stunned by its textures and patterns, and ended up losing all track of time while I made a micro panorama from dozens of individual files. Here was awe and wonder that utterly transported me; an experience that underlies nearly every page of the book.
4. Who or where do you get your inspiration from?
I’m floored by Earth’s beauty and mystery. It’s my duty to protect what I dearly love. A visionary such as Paul Hawken, founder of Project Drawdown and Regeneration.org, is a great role model.
5. You’re highlighting that we’re entering a food and climate crisis. A lot of people reading your work will want to know what they can do at home – what do you suggest?
Connect deeply with nature, and explore how agriculture can honour or degrade what you love. Learn from superb groups such as regeneration.org and foodprint.org (USA). Eat less meat. Vote for leaders and policies which promote regenerative agriculture. Beware of hype and quick fixes. Seek out good work that’s already happening, improve it where possible, and spread the word. And don’t give up.
