At Small Farm Canada we are committed to try to reduce food waste, and that is why this new initiative got our eye, because it empowers the next generation.
Canadian students will soon have a new opportunity to learn about sustainability and responsible food use through an innovative educational program developed by Agriculture in the Classroom Canada and Second Harvest.
The organizations have launched the Food Waste Quest, a new component of the Mission Explorium program designed for students in Grades 6 through 8. The initiative aims to help young learners better understand food waste, food systems, and the importance of sustainable practices.
Food waste affects every stage of the food chain, from farms and processors to retailers, restaurants, and households. Through the new Quest, students explore how food moves from production to consumption while learning where losses can occur and what steps can be taken to reduce waste.
The program uses inquiry-based learning to encourage students to examine real situations and develop practical solutions. Through hands-on projects, research activities, and collaborative learning, participants gain a stronger understanding of food sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Mission Explorium is already known for helping students engage with Canada's food system through learning modules focused on agriculture, ecosystems, and food culture. The addition of the Food Waste Quest broadens the program's scope and introduces students to one of the most important sustainability issues facing today's food sector.
“At Agriculture in the Classroom Canada, we believe every student should have access to meaningful, curriculum‑aligned learning about Canada’s food system. The Food Waste Quest adds an essential sustainability lens to Mission Explorium and helps students connect real‑world food system challenges with hands‑on, inquiry‑based learning,” said Denise Schmidt, Executive Director, Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC‑C).
She added, “We’re proud to partner with Second Harvest to bring this important experience to youth across Canada, and we’re excited to see how students use their creativity and critical thinking to imagine—and build—a more waste‑smart future.”
For rural communities and farming families, education about food waste is especially important. Every product requires time, resources, labour, and investment to produce. When food is wasted, those efforts are also lost. By teaching students about the value of food and the importance of reducing waste, the program helps build appreciation for Canadian agriculture and the people who produce food.
The Food Waste Quest also introduces participants to the role organizations play in rescuing surplus food and supporting communities. Students learn how food recovery efforts can help reduce environmental impacts while improving access to nutritious food.
The program is designed not only to increase knowledge but also to inspire action. Students are encouraged to identify challenges in their own communities and create ideas that can improve sustainability outcomes. Whether through reducing household food waste, promoting awareness campaigns, or suggesting community projects, young people are challenged to become active contributors.
In addition to environmental lessons, the Quest promotes leadership development, creative thinking, communication skills, and teamwork. These experiences help prepare students for future educational and career opportunities linked to agriculture, food, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.
Educators from classrooms, homeschool programs, and community learning groups can now register their students for Mission Explorium. The program includes both regional and national competitions where students can share their projects and solutions.
The 2027 competition schedule begins Jan. 7 with regional events and concludes Apr. 16. Regional winners will be announced Apr. 23. National competitions run from Apr. 26 to May 6, with winning entries announced on May 14.
“The Food Waste Quest helps students gain a better understanding of our food system and empowers them to develop solutions that drive long-lasting, positive change. Second Harvest is thrilled to partner with Agriculture in the Classroom Canada to bring this important learning experience to youth across Canada and we can’t wait to see what the next generation of changemakers will achieve,” said Lori Nikkel, CEO, Second Harvest.
Agriculture in the Classroom Canada continues to work with organizations across the country to strengthen food literacy among young Canadians. Through educational initiatives such as the Food Waste Quest, students gain valuable knowledge about agriculture, sustainability, and responsible food use while developing the skills needed to address future challenges facing Canada's food system.
By encouraging curiosity, innovation, and environmental awareness, the new Quest helps create a generation of informed young Canadians who understand the importance of reducing waste and building a more sustainable future.
To register click on the link to The Food Waste Quest: