From Ecological Design to Educational Empowerment: Exploring a Healthy Food Innovation Model for Sustainable Food Systems

摘要

Background & Rationale (Why): The global food system faces severe sustainability challenges. Prevailing innovation models, often technology-centric, tend to overlook the systemic ecological integration and societal-level educational empowerment required for a holistic transformation. This study addresses this gap by proposing a new, integrated framework.Methodology (How): Adopting a design research approach, this study constructs a theoretical framework that synergizes Ecological Design principles with Educational Empowerment strategies. This framework is developed to guide a more comprehensive innovation process.Implementation (With what): The framework is validated and iterated into a practical model fatores, named "SEED" (Sustainable-Ecological-Educational-Design), through a multi-case analysis of a plant-based protein company and a local food network. The analysis is supported by data from expert interviews and consumer surveys.Core Findings (What): The research demonstrates that the SEED model significantly enhances both the systemic sustainability and market acceptance of food innovations. Ecological design principles optimize resource circularity and value chains, while educational empowerment strengthens consumer sustainability consciousness and engagement.Significance & Value (So what): This study contributes a novel, design-driven innovation pathway for food system transformation. It offers practical guidance for policymakers, enterprises, and educational institutions on integrating ecological and social benefits, providing a replicable model for creating shared value.