IFSP Sustentare: Promoting Urban Agriculture and Sustainable Gastronomy for Food Education and Conscious Citizenship
摘要
This chapter explores some of the means which may be deployed to pursue and implement sustainable development across disciplines. The increasing need to address urban challenges—such as food waste, food insecurity, and environmental degradation—has prompted the investigation of sustainable practices, with urban agriculture and conscious gastronomy emerging as viable strategies. This study focuses on the Sustentare Project developed by the Federal Institute of São Paulo (IFSP), which integrates education, technology, and community engagement to promote the circular economy, waste management, and food security, in alignment with selected United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Adopting an interdisciplinary approach, the research combined literature review, data analysis, and case studies to evaluate initiatives including urban gardens, composting systems, and the application of IoT sensors. Additionally, food reuse workshops were conducted with IFSP students and members of the surrounding community. The findings indicate a significant reduction in organic waste disposal, increased awareness regarding sustainable food practices, and improved cultivation efficiency through the use of technology. Nonetheless, challenges related to energy consumption and financial sustainability persist. The project also contributed to strengthening social bonds and fostering income generation through entrepreneurship, illustrating that the integration of research, community outreach, and innovation can play a transformative role in urban food systems. However, subjective impacts—such as behavioral change—require more refined methodologies for future measurement. In conclusion, these practices are deemed essential for building resilient cities. The findings advocate for their incorporation into public policies and the expansion of participatory models to ensure continuity and scalability. Sustentare serves as a compelling example of how educational institutions can function as agents of change, bridging theory and practice in pursuit of a more equitable and sustainable future.