Climate change, social connection and human health are all intertwined, and that’s through food. Or so says a new festival spearheaded by health guru Dr Sandro Demaio that’s on its way to Melbourne. Across February 1-2, festival21 will take over the Meat Market in North Melbourne to prove that what you choose to eat really does matter.

“Through a series of talks, films and workshops, visitors will be compelled to consider their relationship with food, the effect it has on the future of the community, climate change and population health,” Festival21 explains. “The program is designed to educate, inspire, and equip attendees to make practical, positive changes in how and what they eat.”

Expect a series of TED-style talks, discussion panels and workshops designed for both adults and kids alike. These will address issues including a growing obesity crisis, a lack of understanding about nutrition, food waste, and rising greenhouse gas emissions.

But this won’t be a condemnation of the current situation, rather a brainstorming session of sorts. As festival21 explains: “Food is universal, and personal. Food brings people together, and means something to all of us. While food represents some of our greatest challenges, it is also key to overcoming them.”

There will be more than a few experts on hand to lead talks – Demaio (CEO of EAT Foundation, and host of ABC TV’s Ask the Doctor), will be joined by Alice Zaslavsky (of Masterchef and Phenomenon fame), Damon Gameau (That Sugar Movement), Dr Richard Di Natale (Leader of the Australian Greens), David Ritter (CEO of Greenpeace Australia/Pacific), and Sarah Wilson (Author of I Quit Sugar), and Joost Bakker (designer, florist, environmental activist)  among others. There will also be live musical entertainment, and (of course) food, offered by sustainable and local initiatives Free to Feed and The Social Food Project.

“Food is the cause of our world’s biggest challenges, but it is also the key to overcoming them,” explains festival founder Dr Sandro Demaio of its intentions. “I’m proud to bring festival21 back to Melbourne to give people the tools and ideas they need to be part of the solution for a brighter, healthier and more sustainable future.”

festival21 is a free event, featuring both ticketed and non-ticketed sessions. Reservations can be made in advance online.