This report presents the key ideas from Nesta’s event, which looked at how digital technology can help consumers make sustainable choices. 

Key findings:

• An understanding of the process that gets food onto the table is central to people making better informed choices. The internet and mobile technology could be a crucial enabler in this process.
• Once people are interested in the sustainable food agenda, technology can give them the information they need to make the best choices: apps seem to hold huge potential here. 
• But technology is not just about providing information. It should also ensure that making a sustainable choice is as simple and convenient as possible.
• The challenges are huge but a positive sign for the future is a new generation of innovators and the potential for new simple tech-based solutions. Disruptive technology really can now come from anywhere.

Hot Topics is a new series of Nesta events focussed on the new ideas and technologies that will change business and society in the next few years.

The seventh event in the series, Food (plus) Tech – the next sustainability challenge, explored the role of digital technology in re-connecting consumers with food production and encouraging them to make sustainable choices. 

This report draws together some of the key ideas covered on the day, with further examples, links and videos available on the event resources page.

Author:

Nesta