Theresa Gerstbrein works on food systems transformation spanning sustainability reporting in the retail sector, policy analysis under the Common Agricultural Policy, and collaborations between chefs and food producers.

In her role as a research assistant at Stockholm Resilience Centre, Gerstbrein contributes to several projects focused on food systems transformation. Her work includes mapping sustainability reporting trends among food retailers and feed producers, examining the implications of increasing data requirements for small food producers, analyzing national implementations of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and exploring collaborative models between chefs and food producers.

Gerstbrein holds a master’s degree in Sustainable Development from Uppsala University and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), where her thesis investigated students’ characteristics and behavioural factors driving plate waste in school canteens. She also earned a bachelor’s degree in International Cultural and Business Studies from the University of Passau, Germany, including an ERASMUS semester at the University of Córdoba, Spain.

She has gained professional experience across various industries through internships where she co-developed sustainability strategies and training concepts, with a particular focus on sustainability assessments and reporting in the food, transport and chemical sectors.

Beyond her academic and professional work, Gerstbrein is actively engaged in sustainability-related volunteer activities. As part of the Bruised Food Club, a non-profit organization fighting food waste, she organizes events such as expert panel discussions and creative workshops. She has also supported the organization of the “Hållbart Näringsliv 2024” conference in Stockholm, contributing to dialogue on sustainable business practices.

Supervisor

Amanda Jiménez Aceituno