UBC Undergraduate Research

Exploring ways to lighten the ecological footprint of the Moon Noodle Bar Cooper, Ann-Scarlett; Dick, Alisha; Dickinson, Diana; Lenters, Lindsey; Ng, Joyce; Dai, Xin Yu (Vicki)

Abstract

The UBC Food System Project is an ongoing effort to increase the sustainability of the campus food system. Community stakeholders and AGSC 450 students are engaged in a community-based action research (CBAR) approach to finding and implementing sustainability strategies. Our group was part of scenario two, and we had the task of collaborating with The Moon Noodle Bar to research and explore methods to reduce the outlet’s ecological footprint. Our group first conducted a review of the literature and of lighter footprint strategies at other universities, in addition to a review of past AGSC 450 papers. We established a definition and classification scheme for ecological footprints, and conducted initial interviews with staff at The Moon. Barriers to engaging in the AMS Lighter Footprint Strategy were identified and a survey was conducted to gain an understanding of the knowledge and values of Land and Food Systems (LFS) students and Moon customers. Further interviews were conducted with stakeholders in the UBC food system, and a costing analysis was completed to compare conventional and organic versions of a similar dish. From the information gathered through research, surveys, and interviews, our group developed useful resources including a recipe and promotional tool as well as suggestions to help the Moon overcome the identified barriers. Recommendations were also formulated to support future AGSC 450 classes in continuing their work on this scenario. Disclaimer: “UBC SEEDS provides students with the opportunity to share the findings of their studies, as well as their opinions, conclusions and recommendations with the UBC community. The reader should bear in mind that this is a student project/report and is not an official document of UBC. Furthermore readers should bear in mind that these reports may not reflect the current status of activities at UBC. We urge you to contact the research persons mentioned in a report or the SEEDS Coordinator about the current status of the subject matter of a project/report.”

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Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 2.5 Canada