Today, about one-third of the food produced globally is wasted..
WASTING FOOD MEANS:
*Remember: Adopting correct and conscientious behavior helps to improve the balance of food distribution and mitigate food security issues, in addition to reducing negative impacts on the environment, people, and the economy.
To tackle environmental challenges and support a more sustainable future for our planet,
it is necessary to shift away from the traditional paradigm based on a linear model of production and consumption in which resources are extracted, used, and then disposed of.
This means maximizing resource use and reducing waste through a circular economy based on the recycling and reuse of plastic, paper, glass, metals, and many other materials.
RECYCLING AND REUSING ALLOW US TO:
*Remember: Each of us can play a part through tiny daily actions such as separating waste, purchasing recyclable products, and seeking reuse options. By doing so, we set a good example, encouraging others to adopt these small but effective practices.
Lifestyle is the main factor influencing people’s health.
It accounts for 50%, more than double that of genetics and socioeconomic status (20%), and five times more than social health care (10%).
By changing it, one can live better and longer.
THE FIRST STEP IS TO START EATING HEALTHILY AND EXERCISING. WHY?
The Mediterranean Diet is a nutritional model inspired by the traditions and eating habits of the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea.
In line with the food pyramid, it emphasizes daily consumption of vegetables and fruit. Extra virgin olive oil is the preferred seasoning, along with garlic, onion, and spices. On the other hand, foods like red meats and cured meats should be consumed in moderation, with a preference for white meats or fish. Despite its importance and strong connection to Italy, only 17.3% of Italians are aware of the recommended daily fruit and vegetable intake according to the diet’s guidelines, and only 5% follow this healthy practice.
CHOOSING THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET OFFERS NUMEROUS ADVANTAGES:
Today we live in a world characterized by increasing air pollution, traffic, and sedentary lifestyles.
The importance of adopting more sober and sustainable modes of transportation is crucial and inevitable, but it requires a radical change in daily habits.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF THIS CHOICE?
Today, we travel more and more—whether for work, education, leisure, or vacations.…
To do so, we rely on various modes of transportation (cars, airplanes, trains, etc.), which, despite their increasing efficiency, pose a serious threat to the climate, the natural environment, and public health due to greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, over the last 30 years, transportation has been the only major economic sector in the EU where emissions have increased.
While we can’t stop moving, it’s essential to do so more responsibly. For instance, when possible, choosing the train over planes or cars can make a significant difference. Trains, in fact:
Are more cost-efficient for the climateThe environmental, climate, and health costs of trains (both high-speed and regular) are far lower than those of airplanes and cars. Only electric cars can have lower costs, but only when fully loaded with four passengers.
Seasonal food products (mainly fruits and vegetables, but also mushrooms and fish) are those that naturally reach their optimal consumption point during a specific time of the year. In contrast, out-of-season products are often imported and undergo preservation and processing techniques that can negatively impact their quality.
WHY CHOOSE SEASONAL PRODUCTS?
Organic food products adhere to strict standards that exclude the use of synthetic chemicals in both farming and animal husbandry.
They are often a symbol of quality, authenticity, and a commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Choosing organic products is a significant step toward a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.
*Reminder: Organic products are always marked with the EU “organic” logo
Other Reasons to Choose Organic:
Geographical Indications products boast unique characteristics linked to their geographical origin and traditional expertise. These products have received one of the following recognitions or certifications from the European Union.
Italy has the highest number: 326 agro-food products and 527 wines.
Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)
PDO IS A QUALITY SCHEME THAT IDENTIFIES A PRODUCT:
For wine production, this scheme also implies that the grapes used are sourced exclusively from the designated geographical area and that the product is made from vine varieties belonging to the species Vitis vinifera. This includes Italian wines labeled with Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin (DOCG) and Controlled Designation of Origin (DOC).
Protected Geographical Indication (PGI)
PGI IS A QUALITY SCHEME THAT IDENTIFIES A PRODUCT:
For wine production, this scheme implies that at least 85% of the grapes used come exclusively from the designated geographical area, that production occurs within this area, and that the product is made from vine varieties belonging to the species Vitis vinifera or a cross between Vitis vinifera and other species of the genus Vitis. This includes Italian wines labeled with Indication of Geographical Typicality (IGT).
Traditional Specialty Guaranteed (TSG)
TSG IS A QUALITY SCHEME THAT IDENTIFIES A PRODUCT:
Local small producers and artisans of taste have always played a key role in the social and economic fabric of Italy.
They are the ambassadors of the culture, traditions, and identity of their regions, with their products often distinguished by quality and attention to detail.
However, in the last ten years, we have witnessed a worrying decline in small producers and artisans of taste. The number of farms dropped by 30% between 2010 and 2020; considering that over 90% of these businesses are individual or family-run, the loss is substantial. The same downward trend can be observed in other sectors linked to the production and sale of local food and wine specialties.
Today, we live in an increasingly globalized world. While this phenomenon has allowed us to discover foods and recipes from nearby and distant countries, it is also leading us to forget or abandon our culinary traditions.
We are increasingly in the habit of eating out at least one meal and spending less time cooking-about an hour between breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The risk of losing what characterizes us is therefore high.
Sustainability certifications are seals or labels on various products that attest to compliance with specific environmental, social, and ethical standards. These can pertain to the origin of ingredients, farming practices, worker treatment, resource management, and more.
It’s advisable to trust certifications that are recognized at the European and international levels. These certifications are often identifiable by logos (some products may even include a traceability code) and are subject to periodic checks and controls by third-party organizations, separate from the issuing body.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN CERTIFICATIONS FOR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES?
FOR ALL TYPES OF DESTINATIONS, THERE ARE TWO SPECIFIC REFERENCES:
Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC):
The GSTC provides universal guidelines for sustainability in tourism, which serve as the foundation for various regional and national certifications. The GSTC sets and manages global standards for sustainable travel and tourism. These guidelines are divided into two categories:
1.Destination criteria, intended for public policymakers and destination managers.
2.Industry criteria, designed for hotels and tour operators.
These standards are the result of a global effort to develop a common language on sustainability in tourism and are organized into four pillars:
•(A) Sustainable management
•(B) Socioeconomic impacts
•(C) Cultural impacts
•(D) Environmental impacts
Since every tourist destination has its own unique culture, environment, customs, and laws, the criteria are designed to be adaptable to local conditions and supplemented with additional criteria specific to the location and activities.
European Tourism indicator system (ETIS):
ETIS is a self-assessment tool for evaluating sustainable management performance in terms of environmental, socio-cultural, and economic impact. Developed by the European Commission and implemented since 2013, this tool does not serve as a certification but helps improve sustainable management strategies by actively involving tourism businesses, residents, and other organizations within the sector.
The ecological footprint is an indicator used to assess human consumption of natural resources in relation to the Earth’s capacity to regenerate them. Measuring your own footprint is the first step in adopting a more sustainable lifestyle both at home and on vacation. But how to do it?
HERE IS A LIST OF ONLINE TOOLS THAT PROVIDE AN ESTIMATE BASED ON FACTORS SUCH AS DIET, ACCOMMODATION, AND TRANSPORTATION:
World Footprint Network: One of the most well-known global ecological footprint calculators. It offers a detailed analysis based on various factors such as energy consumption, diet, and lifestyle.
Carbon Footprint: This site focuses primarily on calculating the carbon footprint and also provides suggestions on how to reduce it.
WWF Footprint Calculator: Created by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), this tool is easy to use and focuses on daily consumption choices.
EPA’s Carbon Footprint Calculator: Provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, this tool is specifically designed for the American context but can also be used for a general overview.
+MyClimate: This Swiss tool is particularly detailed and also offers the option to offset your environmental impact through sustainability projects.
Resurgence Ecological Footprint Calculator: A tool that provides a more detailed analysis of individual activities and consumption choices.
Remember: Once you have calculated your footprint, you can take targeted actions to reduce it, including choosing seasonal and local foods, supporting producers who adopt sustainable practices, and selecting low-environmental-impact transportation options.