"The Political Ecology of Chocolate: When Justice and Branding Collide"

"The Political Ecology of Chocolate: When Justice and Branding Collide"
With Dr Kaysara Khatun

Details:
This talk applies political ecology and environmental justice frameworks to Ghana's cocoa sector, examining how power imbalances shape access to land, capital, knowledge, and markets among smallholder farmers. Despite being one of the two largest cocoa-producing countries and, together with Côte d'Ivoire, accounting for about 60% of global cocoa production, many Ghanaian farmers live below the poverty line. The presentation critiques "sustainable" certification schemes as insufficient, smoke-and-mirrors solutions and highlights the structural obstacles that farmers face. It closes by calling for stronger agency for farmers and greater systemic transparency rather than individualised consumer responsibility.

Kaysara’s work is situated at the science -policy interface and is international, multi-scaled, and collaborative in nature. She holds a PhD in Geography from the University of Bristol, an MSc in Environmental Science with Legislation and Management from Brunel University, and a BSc in Physics from Kings College, London. Kaysara uses interdisciplinary approaches from both the natural and social sciences towards the management and preservation of terrestrial and marine ecosystems mainly through a political ecology lens. She also sits on several expert panels and acts as an advisor for governments, the private sector, and civil society.

Venue:
Pizza East, Shoreditch
56 Shoreditch High Street
E1 6JJ

Event Running Time:
(We recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only)
Doors from 7pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:10pm
Finish: 8:30pm

FAQs:

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

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Is there food available?

Yes, there is usually the option to purchase food at our events - please see each venue's menu on their website. If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts. In the unlikely event the kitchen isn't open, there will typically be an option to order in food from elsewhere or bring your own food.

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Can I get my ticket exchanged?

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Is the event pet/baby friendly?

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Is the venue accessible?

All of our venues are accessible, besides the following: The Old Queen's Head, The Landor, The Alma, and The Morpeth Arms.