Systems thinking entails asking fundamental questions: "Where does it come from?" and "Where is it going?" Using the journey of chocolate, from the sun-drenched cocoa plantations to the sweet bars that we all know and love, IIASA researchers guide young learners through the practical applications of systems thinking and life-cycle analysis in our everyday lives. The overarching objective is to encourage students to adopt a perspective focused on relationships and connections, rather than isolating individual components.
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- How does chocolate production influence climate change?
- What ripple effects might climate change have on the very existence of chocolate?
- Are there eco-friendly strategies to offset these impacts?
- And in the face of a changing climate, how can we ensure our beloved chocolate stands the test of time?
are some the questions addressed in this workshop where participants map out the lifecycle of chocolate, focusing on climatic impacts at each stage.
Proficiency in systems thinking and life cycle analysis not only primes the workshop participants for diverse career paths—from environmental science and engineering to public policy and business management—but also shapes their worldview.
These sessions ensure that young people grasp the social, economic, and environmental intricacies of global sustainability challenges. It transforms them from passive observers to proactive, environmentally conscious global citizens ready to champion the cause of a sustainable future.
