Monday 02-05-2022 - 09:00

Learn about the environmental impact of some of your supermarket staples with INSPIRE Intern Divya.

 

By: Divya Singh

Lampeter Canolfan Tir Glas INSPIRE Intern

 

Sustainable Dilemmas in the Grocery Aisle

As you meander down your local supermarket’s aisles, your main focus may be on what ingredients you need to make tonight’s dinner. It is very unlikely that any consideration would be given to the likelihood of your favourite coffee’s contribution to environmental degradation, how the meat for tomorrow’s stew contributes to greenhouse gas emissions or how your bowl of rice for lunch is draining the world’s freshwater supply. However, the possibility is not only present, but also probable. Food accounts for over a quarter (26%) of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Coffee stands as one of the most problematic food items in terms of its impact on the environment. Discharges from coffee plants are responsible for a large amount of pollutants found in rivers and other waterways. This poses a dire ecological threat to the aquatic plants and animals, as well as human beings who depend on these waterways. The agricultural aspect of coffee is problematic as well, as elevated amounts of chemicals and pesticides are used to grow coffee plants on a large scale. The situation is so dire that studies conducted in Latin America have actually found extensive human exposure to these chemicals within those areas. As well as obscene amounts of waste associated with its production, it is fair to say that coffee is not a sustainable food. Fortunately, there are sustainable methods of growing coffee, particularly the traditional method of Shade-Growing which significantly lessens the use of chemicals.

Another food that is bad for the environment is meat. According to the UN, 18 percent of greenhouse gas emissions come from livestock, which is more than from transportation. Not only does rearing livestock contribute to deforestation of forested areas, it also is the world’s largest source of water pollution. This toxic sector is also largely responsible for the extinction of many animals. According to the IUCN Red List, agriculture and aquaculture is listed as a threat to 24,000 of the 28,000 species that are at risk of extinction currently.

Yet another contributor to environmental degradation is the beloved rice. According to Oxfam, rice agriculture is responsible for one-third of the planet’s annual freshwater use, which is alarming in current times, as there are thousands around the world without access to freshwater in order to simply survive. Luckily there are new methods of rice cultivation that are being developed that will decrease the amount of water used.

Food is a necessity to life. The availability and affordability of food will always be the driving factor for most when it's time to grocery shop. However, being conscious of the possible environmental effects and implications is a key feature of promoting sustainability. When possible, it is encouraged to choose sustainably grown or produced foods and when that is not possible, advocacy for such is key.