The rampant over-consumption and over-abundance of resources in the wealthy countries of the 'global north' significantly impact the environment. The issue extends beyond waste to the methods of production, particularly in the meat industry. Meat production and processing consume vast amounts of water and energy, and animal excrement pollutes soil, water, and air. Moreover, methane emissions from animal waste contribute to climate change. Large-scale deforestation, including the destruction of equatorial and Amazonian forests, is driven by the need for grazing land. Meat consumption exacerbates global inequalities and leads to serious health issues in affluent nations. Ethical concerns about animal farming and slaughter also persist.

To address these issues, efforts are being made to reduce or eliminate meat consumption. However, this is challenging due to entrenched habits and culinary traditions. Food waste is another significant problem, often hindered by legal barriers, such as those affecting school meal programs. Despite these challenges, there are positive examples of progress.

In the Polish municipality of Izabelin, a proactive approach has been taken to tackle food waste in schools. A buffet system allows children to choose their portions, reducing plate waste. Leftovers can be taken home in compostable containers. Additionally, the school menu is meat-free three days a week, with meat served only on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Non-organic disposable packaging and cutlery are banned in communal units. The municipality has also established food-sharing points in collaboration with an NGO and published a brochure titled 'Outcast Cuisine,' accompanied by zero-waste cooking workshops.

“Our daily menu is important for the sake of the environment and the fight against climate change,” emphasizes Dorota Zmarzlak, the Mayor of Izabelin. Although she is not a vegetarian and avoids extremism, she believes that the current consumption patterns must change. 
 

https://izabelin.pl/
https://www.greenpeace.org.uk/news/why-meat-is-bad-for-the-environment/
https://www.eatingwell.com/article/291118/30-day-vegan-challenge/
 

Direct SGDs: 

• SDG 12. Responsible consumption and production.

Indirect SDGs:

• SDG 2. Zero hunger.
• SDG 3. Good health and well-being
   

Justification:
SDG 12. Limiting meat in diet affects harmfull for environment impact of animal farming and meat processing.
SDG 2. Limiting meat eating has an impact on the greater availability of food in poor countries.
SDG 3. Limiting meat eating improves people's health and well-being
 

1. What is the environmental impact of animal farming for meat?
2. What impact does excessive meat consumption have on human health?
3. How can an individual make their diet more environmentally friendly? 

The provision of vegetarian nutrition for school children, as well as collective nutrition in general, sparks controversy. Critics argue that it violates the law. However, there is no specific legislation in Poland that requires the compulsory inclusion of meat in school or kindergarten meals. Instead, dietary guidelines outline the nutritional requirements for meals, including the necessary protein content, which can be met through alternatives like legumes instead of meat. 

Piotr Znaniecki
Fundacja SocLab