Lesson 4: Sustainable Food Practices

  • Introduction: Sustainable food practices are essential for ensuring the long-term availability of nutritious foods and protecting the environment. These practices align with traditional Indigenous values of stewardship and respect for the land.

  • Deep Dive:
    • Principles of Sustainable Food Practices: Explore key principles of sustainable food production, including biodiversity, soil health, water conservation, and the use of natural inputs.
    • Indigenous Approaches to Sustainability: Discuss traditional Indigenous approaches to food production and sustainability, such as crop rotation, companion planting, and respect for natural cycles.
    • Addressing Food Insecurity: Explore how sustainable food practices can address food insecurity in Indigenous communities, particularly in remote or underserved areas.

  • Activity: Discuss or simulate sustainable food growing practices relevant to your community. Consider how these practices can be applied to create a sustainable food source for diabetes management.

  • Discussion Questions:
    • What are some key principles of sustainable food practices, and how do they align with traditional Indigenous values?
    • How can sustainable food practices help address food insecurity in Indigenous communities?
    • What are the challenges of implementing sustainable food practices in modern-day communities, and how can they be overcome?
    • How can communities balance the need for sustainability with the demands of modern food production and consumption?
    • What role can individuals play in promoting sustainable food practices within their communities?