Insights from the Past Can Inform the Future

About Me

I’m Emma—a multidisciplinary environmental scientist and ecologist working at the intersection of ecology, sustainability, agriculture, food security, and climate change.

Based in Ireland with projects extending to the Netherlands and the US, I study how our past can guide more sustainable food systems and foster resilient communities.

My Mission

We are in the midst of a climate and food crisis. To secure our future, we need to understand where our food comes from, how it’s produced, and how it intersects with environmental and social sustainability. I advocate for food education, addressing misconceptions about food production, and promoting sustainable farming practices. By integrating the history of crop domestication, indigenous knowledge, and nature-based solutions, I aim to contribute to the development of agricultural systems that combat biodiversity loss, climate change, and support dynamic rural economies. Empowering women and communities in developing countries through sustainable agriculture is central to my vision.

What I Do

I focus on the science and management of soil, the environment, modern farming tools, and the policies shaping agriculture and sustainability—viewed through the lens of evolutionary biology, cultural/traditional knowledge, and archaeology. By examining our history of cultivating plants and shaping landscapes, and the knowledge inherent in agricultural communities, I aim to uncover innovative strategies to bolster food security, sustainability, and social equity. I also champion comprehensive food education, especially in schools, to prepare the next generation for making impactful decisions that benefit our shared future.

Contact

emmajdevereux@ecofooddev.com