WFF Youth Initiative film screening highlights the role of culture in agrifood systems transformation

On 4 June 2025, the World Food Forum (WFF)’s Global Youth Action Initiative, in collaboration with the Permanent Representation of Italy to the United Nations in Rome, hosted a youth film screening and panel discussion.  The event took place at the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and brought together students, FAO staff and young professionals to explore the intersection of culture, film, sustainability and agrifood systems.

The screening featured 68.415, winner of Best Fiction Film at the 2023 WFF Youth Film Festival. Directed by Antonella Sabatino and Stefano Blasi, the film follows a fictional patient undergoing a food “re-education” programme, shedding light on the presence of plastics in agrifood systems. The title refers to the estimated number of microplastic particles a person consumes each year, highlighting the harmful impact of plastic pollution on both the environment and health.

Opening remarks were delivered by Kazuki Kitaoka, Director of the FAO Office of Youth and Women, who emphasized the power of film and youth engagement in transforming our agrifood systems. Ambassador Bruno Archi, Permanent Representative of Italy to the United Nations in Rome, further solidified the importance of engaging young people through cultural initiatives to support sustainable development.

Following the screening, participants took part in an intergenerational panel discussion featuring experts from FAO. Among them was Sergejus Ustinov from the Land and Water Division, who highlighted the often-overlooked issue of microplastic pollution in soils. He noted that while marine pollution is more widely recognized, soil contamination is equally significant, affecting soil health and long-term food production.

Kelsey Richardson from the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division highlighted how plastic pollution from fishing activities differs from other types of plastic waste. She explained that many fishing gears are made of plastic and, when lost at sea, they continue to pose serious threats to marine life. These gears can keep catching and killing marine organisms long after they have been abandoned or lost.

Giulia Carcasci from the Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment shared insights on the role of waste management in reducing plastic pollution in agrifood systems. She emphasized the need for behavioural change and better choices on how to dispose of plastic after use. Giulia noted that plastics are not disappearing anytime soon, so it is crucial to focus on managing existing challenges, from soil and marine pollution to broader waste issues, while also supporting youth-led solutions for a more sustainable future.

The event also highlighted Italian food culture with a tasting led by two young chefs committed to sustainable practices. The event illustrated how youth engagement and culture can raise awareness and drive action on key agrifood systems challenges. It also showcased the joint efforts of Italy and FAO in tackling plastic pollution and promoting youth participation at both local and global levels.