Nicholas Hyslop
Pronouns: he/him
Research Mentor(s): Carissa Knox
Co-Presenter:
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Center for Sustainable Systems / SNRE
Presentation Date: April 20
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: Session 1 – 10am – 10:50am
Room: League Ballroom
Authors: Carissa Knox, Nick Hyslop
Presenter: 4
Abstract
Since the deindustrialization of the Michigan automobile industry beginning in the 1960’s, the city of Flint, Michigan has suffered from depopulation, unemployment, and several interrelated public health crises like the Flint Water Crisis. Flint’s food system is in a state of food apartheid, with low food security and community reliance on the emergency food sector. Using fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM), 51 experts across the Flint food system were interviewed about how the food system functioned and were asked to identify potential leverage points. Individual cognitive maps were aggregated into a single collective intelligence model that revealed key dynamics of the complex system. Using the interview transcripts, we qualitatively coded concepts, connections, and leverage points – aspects of the food system that could be changed or new interventions that would result in positive outcomes. Specific ideas for leverage points ranged, but major themes emerged such as improving nutritious food access, increasing educational opportunities, strengthening the local food economy, and improving access to transportation. Finally, potential leverage points will be analyzed using the collective intelligence map and further discussion with community members and key actors in the Flint food system. The combination of participatory modeling with FCM and continuous collaboration with community partners, sector leaders, and policy makers enables the creation of an intuitive map of the Flint food system and a transparent and efficient process for selecting and implementing leverage points that will be an effective pathway to a sustainable and resilient food system.
Environmental Studies, Interdisciplinary
