Madeline Buehrer: Reimagining Food Systems with UW’s Plant Futures Chapter
Madeline Buehrer, a senior at the University of Washington, is studying Environmental Science and Food Systems, Nutrition, and Health.
Her journey toward sustainable food systems advocacy began with a lifelong passion for the environment and an increasing awareness of the impact our food choices have on the planet.
"I’ve been passionate about the environment for as long as I can remember. The more I learned about the problems we’re facing, the harder it was to ignore the contributions of our food system to environmental degradation and climate change."
This commitment to sustainability has shaped her studies and inspired her to dive into the complexities of creating an equitable food system.
Curiosity for Sustainable Food Systems
Madeline’s curiosity for food systems emerged from her environmental studies. "Learning about our food system’s impact on the environment was eye-opening," she says. "It made me realize how much of a difference we can make by rethinking how we grow, distribute, and consume food." Driven by this knowledge, Madeline set out to explore solutions that benefit both people and the planet. Her studies are focused on understanding the challenges of sustainable food production and finding ways to reshape the system to ensure it supports health, resilience, and environmental balance.
Vision for the Future of Food
When asked what her dream food system looks like, Madeline describes a vision rooted in accessibility and justice. “The future food system of my dreams looks like everyone having consistent access to healthy, nutritious, and culturally appropriate foods,” she says. "This food should be grown in a way that doesn’t further degrade the environment or rely on exploitative labor practices." Madeline believes in a system that respects both human and environmental well-being, and she’s dedicated to contributing to this change through her work and advocacy.
Appreciation for the Plant Futures Community
Being part of the Plant Futures chapter at UW has provided Madeline with a supportive and driven community. “I appreciate being surrounded by students who are engaging in difficult, important conversations and who want to be catalysts for change,” she says. For Madeline, this group represents hope and collective action, where students are empowered to confront the pressing issues facing our food systems.
Beyond the Classroom
Outside of her studies and advocacy work, Madeline finds joy in the natural world, especially through backpacking and foraging. These hobbies connect her even more deeply to the environment she’s passionate about protecting, reminding her of the importance of sustainability and respect for nature in all aspects of life.
