University of Brighton hosts major UNESCO Biosphere event

Our Southeast Hub, The University of Brighton, recently hosted Nature Starts on Our Plate, a major UNESCO Biosphere event bringing together global experts, sustainability leaders, and passionate young changemakers to explore the pressing challenges of climate and food. Organised by The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere, the event highlighted the importance of local, sustainable food choices in supporting both planetary and human health.

A highlight of the day was the inaugural UNESCO UK Biosphere Youth Forum, held at the university’s innovative Wild House – an extension of the award-winning Waste House. Young environmental leaders gathered to create an action plan for youth engagement across UNESCO Biospheres, with their ideas feeding into wider global discussions. Representing the University of Brighton was Robson Peisley, an Ecology and Conservation student, who voiced his excitement at shaping a more sustainable future alongside fellow youth activists.

The event featured renowned three-Michelin-starred chef and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Biodiversity, Mauro Colagreco, who spoke about circular gastronomy – a way of cooking that honours natural cycles and biodiversity. Advocating for hyper-seasonal ingredients and a plastic-free kitchen, Colagreco’s approach offers a powerful model for sustainable food systems.

Joining him on the expert panel were key figures in food sustainability, including Victoria Williams of the Brighton & Hove Food Partnership, Ridgeview’s Mardi Roberts, and local farmer Annie Brown. University Vice-Chancellor Professor Donna Whitehead celebrated the event as a reflection of Brighton’s deep commitment to sustainability, emphasising the university’s role in equipping students to tackle the world’s most urgent challenges.

Read the full story here.