Own Your Impact

In a world grappling with food insecurity and environmental degradation, the issue of food wastage has become increasingly prominent. Studies indicate that roughly one-third of the food produced for human consumption is wasted globally each year, amounting to approximately 1.3 billion tons. This wastage not only squanders valuable resources but also exacerbates issues such as hunger, economic losses, and environmental harm. Upon closer examination, it becomes evident that food wastage is not a monolithic phenomenon; rather, it manifests in various forms, each stemming from distinct attitudes, behaviors, and circumstances. In this essay, we will explore three archetypal types of food...

In an era where consumer trust in the food industry is constantly challenged by issues like contamination, mislabeling, and fraudulent practices, blockchain technology emerges as a promising solution. With its decentralized and immutable nature, blockchain has the potential to revolutionize the way we track, verify, and secure food supply chains, ultimately restoring confidence among consumers and ensuring food safety. Understanding the Problem: Consumer trust in the food industry is fragile, often undermined by incidents of foodborne illnesses, adulteration scandals, and misleading labeling. These issues not only pose risks to public health but also erode confidence in food products and the...

The issue of food waste is a pressing global concern, with significant environmental, economic, and social implications. One major contributor to this problem is the widespread reliance on use-by dates, which often lead to perfectly edible food being discarded prematurely. In this essay, we will explore how scrapping use-by dates could potentially alleviate this issue, leading to a reduction in food waste on a considerable scale. The Problem with Use-By Dates Use-by dates, also known as expiration dates, are intended to inform consumers about the date beyond which a product may no longer be safe to consume. However, these dates...

Reducing rubbish, or waste, is a concept deeply ingrained in modern environmentalism and sustainability efforts. It's often seen as a straightforward solution to many environmental problems, from pollution to resource depletion. However, there are scenarios where the blanket goal of waste reduction might not make sense or could have unintended consequences. In this essay, we'll explore various perspectives on why reducing rubbish might not always be the optimal approach. One of the primary reasons why reducing rubbish might not make sense is when the focus solely on waste reduction leads to overlooking other important environmental considerations. For instance, in some...

As we gather around tables adorned with an abundance of culinary delights during holiday seasons, it's easy to get lost in the joyous atmosphere and the tantalizing aromas wafting through the air. However, amidst the festivities, there lies a significant issue that often goes unnoticed: food waste. Each year, millions of tons of food are wasted globally, and holiday feasts contribute significantly to this staggering figure. Yet, fostering awareness of food waste can transform our perspective, enabling us to truly appreciate the value of these meals beyond their delectable flavors. To comprehend the significance of addressing food waste during holidays,...

In the global pursuit of sustainability, the concept of a circular economy has emerged as a promising solution to mitigate waste and reduce emissions. The idea is simple yet profound: instead of the traditional linear model of production and consumption, where goods are made, used, and disposed of, a circular economy aims to close the loop by designing out waste and keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible. Governments around the world have recognized the urgency of transitioning towards this model. However, despite their intentions, many find themselves entangled in a maze of challenges, hindering effective...

Plastic waste has become one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. Over the past few decades, awareness campaigns aimed at highlighting the detrimental effects of plastic waste on our planet have gained significant traction. These campaigns have succeeded in raising public awareness about the urgency of the issue and have led to notable shifts in consumer behavior and government policies. However, despite these accomplishments, numerous challenges persist, hindering progress in the fight against plastic pollution. One of the primary achievements of plastic waste awareness campaigns has been their ability to educate the public about the environmental consequences...

In an era where sustainability is paramount, innovative solutions are crucial to address the pressing challenges facing global food production. With a burgeoning population, dwindling freshwater resources, and escalating environmental concerns, the traditional methods of agriculture are no longer viable in the long term. However, amidst these challenges lies a potential solution – the utilization of wastewater for agricultural purposes. This paradigm shift not only addresses water scarcity but also offers a sustainable approach to food production. By harnessing wastewater, we can pave the way towards a future where food security is ensured without compromising environmental integrity. Understanding Wastewater Agriculture:...

In October 2020, Apple made headlines with its announcement that the iPhone 12 would not include a charger or EarPods in the box, citing environmental concerns. This decision sparked a heated debate, with some applauding it as a bold step towards waste reduction, while others criticized it as a thinly veiled attempt to boost profits. In this essay, we will explore both sides of the argument to determine whether Apple's move was truly a smart waste-reduction initiative or a clever cash grab. On the one hand, Apple's decision to exclude chargers from iPhone 12 packaging aligns with its stated commitment...