This paper contributes to the emerging global discussion on how to orient government policy and
action by organizations and individuals towards human diets that are environmentally sustainable. Emerging
threats to global food security are resulting in action being taken involving transformations across the entire
supply chain, from production to consumption. This paper provides an overview of the global food system and
associated human diets before reviewing consumer behaviour in relation to dietary choices and identifying
changes required for a more environmentally sustainable diet. Priority areas identified for policy and research that
encourage consumers to change, based on high environmental impact and likelihood of consumers changing their
behaviour, are reduction of “junk food” consumption and minimization of avoidable food waste.
Key words: marketing; food; consumer choices; environmentally sustainable diets.