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Protein transition: A new report - “A new land dividend:the opportunity of alternative proteins in Europe” - reveals that alternative proteins could greatly enhance Europe's food self-sufficiency. The research explores the impacts alternative proteins could have on land use in ten European countries. There is simply not enough land on Earth for current patterns of consumption to continue whilst avoiding climate breakdown and restoring nature. By reducing reliance on imports and bolstering local production, these proteins present a strategic advantage and the shift can offer substantial benefits for farmers in a sustainable manner.
Other recently released research indicates approximately one-third of European consumers perceive plant-based substitutes, such as vegetarian chicken pieces and vegan cheese slices, as ultra-processed foods (UPFs). Specifically, 36% view vegetarian chicken and 34% view vegan cheese this way. Interestingly, these plant-based alternatives are more likely to be considered ultra-processed than their animal-based counterparts. This perception is deterring many consumers from choosing plant-based options over traditional meat and dairy products. According to this research by EIT Food, concerns about processing levels are significant barriers. Ongoing research continues to explore the benefits of transitioning to plant-based diets, both in terms of individual health environmental impacts. Inputs transition: Importantly for the supply of agricultural products, the EU is implementing ESG compliance requirements across larger companies' supply chains. This will help to put the spotlight on the quality and quantity of inputs used for agricultural production, which can affect biodiversity and climate resilience. Advancements in technology, including ‘Track &Trace’ solutions, are playing a crucial role in ensuring adherence to these expanding regulations. Related to this type of requirement, new tools are being developed to prevent fraud by enabling the precise tracing of food products to their geographical origins. For example as detailed in this article, researchers are deploying isotopic markets to link hazelnuts back to their growth conditions and environment. Reducing waste: Supporting the advancement of initiatives in this strategic area, the EU is the EU is proposing further food waste reduction targets. The European Commission’s revised proposal is for household/retail/restaurant/foodservice food waste to be reduced by 40% by 2030 (increased from 30%), for manufacturing/processing food waste to be reduced by 20% (increased from 10%). As awareness of the potential benefits grows, these targets aim towards significant progress in minimising food waste across the region. Given the high estimated levels of food waste, the potential for corporate savings and return on investment in waste reduction initiatives is large. Enabling infrastructure: Following the United Nations’ historic COP28 affirmation towards the end of last year, “that agriculture and food systems must urgently adapt and transform in order to respond to the imperatives of climate change,” the World Bank has now released a practical guide detailing global actions and specific steps towards similar objectives for countries at all income levels. The World Bank guide recognises the important role of government incentives in directing agriculture practices of member countries while emphasising six key areas: investments, incentives, information, innovation, institutions, and inclusion.
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A data-based appraisal of the current state of our planet: scientists are becoming incressingly concerned that we are close to multiple tipping pointsJohan Rockstrom is Director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research and Professor in Earth System Science at the University of Potsdam.
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AuthorMichiel Timmerman Archives
January 2025
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