Global network presents solutions for cutting down plastic use in food chain

On World Earth Day 2024, a global network promoting local food and traditional cooking has called for practical measures to cut down on plastic use in the food chain and to safeguard the environment. The theme for this Earth Day, celebrated April 22 every year, is Planet vs Plastics.

The statement by Slow Food Earth Markets Network comes ahead of the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment, being held in Ottawa, Canada. The INC-4 will be held April 23-29, 2024.

It is urgent to denounce the overuse of plastic in the food industry, from production to distribution, Slow Food said in a press statement, adding that its presence is harmful to the environment, wildlife, and human health. The network exemplified its strategies to reduce plastic use in food production and distribution. 

The network organises Earth Markets around the world, which are a farmers’ market where local small-scale producers can come together and sell their food directly to consumers.

According to Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), plastic use in agriculture is staggering. In 2019, the global food production industry used approximately 12.5 million tonnes of plastic, primarily for packaging food products, according to a 2021 FAO report. 

Crop production and livestock sectors were responsible for 10 million tonnes of emissions, while fisheries and aquaculture contributed 2.1 million tonnes and forestry accounted for 0.2 million tonnes, the report added.

These discarded plastics often break down into smaller fragments known as microplastics. These microplastics can accumulate in soil, posing a threat to beneficial organisms that are crucial for healthy soils and plant growth. These microplastics can also enter the food chain, potentially jeopardising food safety, food security, and human health.

The Slow Food Movement called on institutions and policymakers to adopt a wider vision and prioritise the planet’s well-being over short-term economic interests. By supporting and scaling up these successful solutions, we can create a healthier future for our planet and ourselves.

The organisation presented innovative solutions undertaken by the network to reduce plastics in their food systems. “Producers at Earth Markets all around the world are increasingly trying to engage consumers in a circular economy that safeguards not only their livelihoods but also the planet,” Edie Mukiibi, Slow Food president, said in the statement.

Tarsus Earth Market is a Turkey-based initiative aiming to be plastic-free and educate producers and customers on plastic’s harm. They research alternatives and inspire regional markets. 

In Bogotá, Colombia, Earth Markets created a “Bag Tree” to encourage bag reuse. Customers contribute paper, cloth, or reusable bags for others to use. 

Bouctouche Earth Market in Canada implements a comprehensive zero-waste model. They educate, prevent waste, reuse, upcycle, compost, and incorporate “gleaning” (collecting leftover produce) to create Slow Food products.

In Mexico, Mercado de la Tierra Capital Verde prioritises reusable packaging. Producers use glass whenever possible and establish return systems with customers. They also raise consumer awareness about bringing reusable bags.

Juice producers in Aguadilla Earth Market in Puerto Rico use reusable glass bottles and egg sellers collect and reuse cartons.

These Earth Markets demonstrate that a plastic-free future is achievable. By prioritising education, reusable packaging, waste reduction, and consumer collaboration, they offer a blueprint for a more sustainable food system, the statement said.