The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical fragilities of food supply chains and emphasized the consequences of when they become disrupted. Debates around the resiliency and sustainability of these supply chains are not new, with many discussions revolving around how our food system is designed to produce ample and cheap calories to support a growing population. However, our food system needs to address 21st century challenges, including combatting climate change pressures, reducing environmental degradation, limiting resource extraction, maintaining economic profitability, and addressing social justice concerns. Sustainability in the food supply chain is being analysed, but the food and beverage manufacturing sector has avoided the spotlight. Cassandra (Cassie) Hayward aims to shine light on sustainability in the critical manufacturing industry which is the subject of significantly less published research as compared to primary agriculture. She is pursuing a PhD at the University of Cambridge in Land Economy. Her research builds upon her experiences working as a policy analyst with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.
With a primary focus on the Canadian industry, Cassie’s research will investigate how food and beverage manufacturing companies are performing on the Sustainable Development Goal targets. Her research will include corporate surveys and interviews, aiming to provide actionable recommendations for the private and public sectors. With little academic literature available, her thesis will fill a critical research gap.
Cassie holds an MA in Global Governance from the University of Waterloo achieved through the Balsillie School of International Affairs and a BA(Hons) double major in Political Science and Environment, Sustainability and Society from the University of King’s College, Halifax. Her many interesting experiences include working for the Centre for International Sustainable Development Law, completing food-system related internships in Toronto and in Cordoba, Argentina and engaging with various United Nations organizations including the Committee on Global Food Security and the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO).
In her spare time, Cassie is a Blue’s rugby player at Cambridge and general rugby enthusiast. She is from the East Coast of Canada – Dartmouth, Nova Scotia – where her family still resides.
Cassandra was awarded the McCarthy Tétrault Scholarship 2023 – 2024.
