On a cool, late summer morning, a delegation of representatives from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Swiss Federal Office for Agriculture visited the World Food System Center at ETH Zurich.
Christian Wolfrum, Vice President of Research at ETH Zurich and Martijn Sonnevelt, Director of the World Food System Center, welcomed the delegation including Qu Dongyu (FAO Director General), Christian Hofer (Director Swiss Federal Office for Agriculture), and Krisztina Bende (Swiss Ambassador to the United Nations organizations in Rome).
Prof. Wolfrum introduced how ETH Zurich and the World Food System Center contribute to a healthy world through sustainable food systems. He explained that the Center connects research groups across the ETH Domain and acts as a hub of multidisciplinary expertise. Members collaborate with strategically relevant partners across disciplines and sectors to holistically address complex research challenges.
Bridging fundamental research to applications as well as sharing of knowledge with the public was highlighted. Closer collaboration of the FAO with ETH Zurich was also discussed. Specifically, the memorandum of understanding between the UN and ETH Zurich, signed last October, provides an excellent opportunity to strengthen further cooperation. The Young Assembly of the World Food Forum this fall also provides a chance for students and young scientists from ETH Zurich to connect with colleagues from around the world to discuss policy matters, exchange diverse perspectives, and cooperatively identify actionable solutions for a better food future.