Food Miles & Carbon Footprint: What’s the Connection?

Posted On : 30 Dec, 2024

– Shivaan Darda

Ever wondered if your sustainable, healthy dish is doing its bit for the environment? Let me tell you about the idea of food miles. It refers to the distance a meal or its ingredients travels from its source to the consumer’s plate. This concept highlights the environmental impact of food transportation and its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.

1.Transportation Emissions: Exotic vegetables or fruits that travel long distances, especially via planes, ships, and trucks, generate significant GHG emissions. Air freight, in particular, is highly carbon-intensive, contributing heavily to climate change. – You can go for locally grown versions of these items or seasonal options that have the same nutritional value.

2.Energy-Intensive Cold Storage: Perishable items and fresh produce often require refrigeration during transit. Cold storage increases energy consumption and emissions, adding to the overall carbon footprint of these goods. – Go for daily or weekly grocery runs of locally-made brands and items.

3.Globalization of Food Supply Chains: The demand for out-of-season produce and exotic foods has led to extensive global food networks. While this provides year-round variety, it increases reliance on long-distance transportation, amplifying environmental impacts. – Rethink your food choices and opt for seasonal alternatives.

4.Hidden Costs of Processed Foods: Highly processed and packaged foods often travel longer distances than fresh or whole foods. The production and transportation of such items result in higher cumulative emissions compared to local, unprocessed foods. – If you have an option you can try freshly cooked meals in tiffin boxes. Alternatively, you can prepare weekly meals in advance to save time.
These practices help lower individual carbon footprints and foster a more sustainable and eco-conscious food system.