shifting habits , shifting minds
We have not yet even begun to touch upon the cost of lands actively destroyed by chemical fertilizer run-off and clean water systems that become contaminated . The US accounts for a total of around 31 per cent of these figures , making it the primary offender . Fortunately , these numbers haven ’ t gone unnoticed . The Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Agriculture announced in 2015 a goal to cut food waste in half by 2030 . The numbers they compiled in 2010 were equally as disturbing as those compiled by the FAO . They determined that each American was responsible for approximately 218.9 pounds of food waste . This is personal waste , aside from the already overwhelming corporate and overproduction numbers . They hope to cut this number down to 109.4 pounds , and all other waste , by 66 billion pounds per year . These goals may seem ambitious , and would require change on the part of everyone . However , as the need to preserve environmental and economic interests grows , it is a goal that is becoming more and more essential . But how can these goals be achieved and the valuable resources we throw to the wind every year be preserved ? The overarching solution is simple : change our habits , from the personal to the corporate levels , and create a culture of sustainability . It is much easier said than done , and requires a conscious shift in how we think about and approach our consumption habits and production methods . Overcoming the ugly food perception problem is paramount . Educating the public and incentivizing farmers to keep misshapen produce and end overproduction is an undeniable necessity . Exploring practices like vertical farming can help conserve land and water usage while implementing permaculture techniques to mimic more natural environments will alleviate some of the environmental impact . The key to these methods relies upon reducing production .
On the personal level , we can all do more . Look to curb excess purchasing , donate leftovers , learn about expiration dates , and make sure you are researching your food to ensure proper storage techniques . It ’ s important to remember that it ’ s possible to grow your own food . Indoor gardening has never been easier . These might seem like small and insignificant steps , but if everyone participated in working toward this new sustainable food culture , the goal of cutting waste in half could be achieved in half the projected time .
“ The overarching solution is simple : change our habits , from the personal to the corporate levels , and create a culture of sustainability .”
68 Maximum Yield USA | February 2017