What is a food desert?

A food desert is where there is limited to no access to affordable, fresh, and nutritious food. In these regions, the availability of grocery stores, supermarkets, and other sources of healthy food options is scarce. Instead, residents often rely on convenience stores or fast-food outlets that offer mainly processed and unhealthy food choices.

Characteristics of a food desert include:

• Limited Access to healthy food
• Low-Income Population
• Lack of Fresh Produce
• Health Impacts
• Food Security Concerns
• Socioeconomic Factors

Two in five people cannot afford healthy food. Over 3.1 billion people, 42% of the global population, could not afford a nutritious diet in 2021, nearly half of the world’s population. The cost of a healthy diet has risen by almost 7% compared to pre-pandemic levels. 

Low-income households are facing a difficult situation because they would need to spend more than twice their current food budget to afford a healthy diet, as reported. 

Food insecurity is a growing challenge for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Before the Covid-19 pandemic, UN agencies found that more than 55 million people out of a total population of 456.7 million were experiencing undernourishment. In 2020, MENA accounted for 20% of the world’s acutely food-insecure population, disproportionately high compared to its 6% share of the global population. 

The region faces significant structural challenges in feeding its growing population. The first major challenge is climate change, with extreme weather and rising temperatures affecting local agriculture. Half of the MENA population already lives under water stress and with a projected population increase to nearly 700 million by 2050, per capita. Additionally, the region experienced a severe desert locust outbreak in 2020, impacting livelihoods and food security for millions.

The second challenge is the rapid population growth, which is the highest worldwide, coupled with the expansion of urban areas. Agricultural productivity is struggling to keep up with the population increase, except in Egypt, where productivity gains are above the global average.

The third challenge relates to diet and nutrition. The region heavily relies on food imports, mainly wheat and staple grains. MENA imports around half of its food, rising to 90% in Gulf Cooperation Countries. Many people’s caloric intake comes from wheat products subsidized by governments. Additionally, between a quarter and one-third of the adult population in the region is obese.

The current food system needs to nourish people’s health adequately. While it provides calories, it lacks sufficient nutrition. As a result, many individuals face the dual challenges of malnutrition, experiencing both stunting and obesity.

In Yemen, almost half of the children are underweight for their age. In Djibouti, one-third suffer from the same condition, causing long-term effects on their cognitive development and can impact the economic progress of their nations.

How to address food deserts?

• Reducing the heavy reliance on food imports to combat fluctuating food prices.
• Support local food markets, small businesses and healthy existing traditional food culture
• Invest in agricultural practices and technologies that adapt to climate change, such as hydroponics, conservation agriculture, and safe water usage. 
• Digital technology and innovative financial models can attract private investment in agriculture and hydroponics.
• Development interventions that support farmers in adopting more productive and sustainable systems resilient to climate-related risks like droughts and floods.
• Improving agricultural job quality and making the agri-food sector more attractive
• Implementing initiatives like entrepreneurship training and climate-smart practices
• Implementing social protection measures such as safety nets and targeted food aid programs 
• Improve the efficiency of food imports and storage.
• Show the world that grandma’s cooking is smart and healthy

The post What’s a food desert and how can we solve them? appeared first on Green Prophet.

After weeks of intense debates at the International Seabed Authority (ISA) meeting in Jamaica this summer, deep seabed mining will not be allowed. The ISA, an international organization responsible for overseeing and regulating mineral resource activities in the seabed and ocean floor, focuses on protecting the marine environment from harmful impacts related to deep-seabed activities. 

On July 28, 2023, the ISA announced the reinstatement of a moratorium on deep-sea mining. The proposal to discuss the protection of the marine environment and the future of deep-sea mining, initially blocked, will be on the agenda for the upcoming Assembly in 2024 thanks to champion countries’ efforts.

The ocean is already under significant stress from various factors, and deep-sea mining could exacerbate the situation. A temporary halt, or in the ISA’s terms, moratorium, is considered the best option until there is sufficient scientific evidence to protect the marine environment adequately. A number of companies have started mining for precious metals and minerals and policies need to be developed before the sea floor is ripped apart.

The deep-sea mining industry is being questioned as unnecessary for the green transition, and alternative measures like technology choices, recycling, and circular economy practices are suggested to reduce mineral demand. Transitioning to a circular economy is vital to effectively address biodiversity and climate crises.

A total of 21 countries have joined the call for a ban, precautionary pause, or moratorium on deep seabed mining, with Canada, Brazil, Finland, and Portugal making announcements during the ISA meetings. Additionally, companies representing 32% of the global tuna industry expressed concerns, 37 financial institutions managing over 3.3 trillion euros in assets highlighted the need for understanding potential risks, and the UN Commissioner on Human Rights advised against deep-sea mining.

Throughout the week, China, in favor of deep sea mining, had opposed the motion for discussion but eventually consented to include it in the agenda for 2024.

Supporters of deep-sea mining argue that it is necessary to fulfil the growing demand for metals like cobalt and nickel, which are crucial for producing batteries used in electric cars and the the shift towards green energy from fossil fuels. Companies like Regenx from Canada show that we can do a better job of recycling and re-using what we already have in the system. Another Canadian company, started the whole deep sea mining controversy. The Canadian company The Metals Company partnered with a tiny nation of Naura in Micronesia to trigger a loophole.

Canada is undoubtedly a mining nation and we need to hope that Canada will set the global environmental standard on protecting its Arctic borders and Pacific and Atlantic coasts when it comes to deep sea mining.

According to the Mining Association of Canada, which represents mines and their assets mining industry continues to be a critically important part of Canada’s economy, and contributed $125 billion to the GDP in 2021, 5% of the total. Mining, quarrying and oil and gas extraction made up 7.9% of Canada’s $2 trillion gross domestic product.

The debate made clear that governments, financial institutions, scientists, and communities are uniting in opposition to deep seabed mining and are creating progress.

However, the potential danger of unregulated deep-sea mining persists, and the complete extent of its impact, if allowed to proceed, remains uncertain.

The post Deep sea mining and killing the seas so you can drive an electric car appeared first on Green Prophet.

In a world increasingly concerned about the health of our planet, it is important to recognize positive environmental news that showcases efforts to protect and restore the Earth. 

From conservation breakthroughs to sustainable innovations, here are ten uplifting environmental stories that bring hope for a brighter future!

Reforestation Success in Brazil: 

In Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, a massive reforestation project has led to the recovery of 500,000 acres of land, equivalent to the size of Singapore. By planting native tree species and employing sustainable agricultural practices, the initiative is reversing deforestation and providing habitat for endangered wildlife.

Solar Power Surpasses Global Milestone: 

In 2023, the world celebrated a remarkable achievement as solar power surpassed 1 terawatt (1 trillion watts) of installed capacity. This milestone represents a significant step towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels and achieving a more sustainable energy future.

Net Zero Laws in Switzerland 

Swiss citizens have scored a climate victory by voting in favor of a new climate law. The law aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, addressing the alarming glacier melt and paving the way for climate neutrality. This significant step shows how people in Switzerland are taking charge of their future and working towards a better environment for future generations.

Ocean Cleanup Success: 

The Ocean Cleanup Project, a nonprofit organization focused on removing plastic debris from the ocean (remember Boyan Slatt), reported a significant reduction in plastic waste. Their innovative system deployed in the Great Pacific. Garbage patch has successfully collected millions of pounds of plastic, contributing to cleaner oceans.

Cities Pledge to Go Carbon Neutral: 

Several major cities worldwide, including Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Helsinki, have pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. Through renewable energy adoption, sustainable transportation, and energy-efficient buildings, these cities are leading the way in the fight against climate change.

New Marine Protected Areas: 

In a joint effort, over 50 countries recently established the largest marine protected area in the Atlantic Ocean, covering 4.5 million square kilometers. This conservation initiative aims to safeguard biodiversity, marine habitats, and critical ecosystems.

The Biden Administration Efforts to Safeguard Endangered Species 

The Biden Administration is making efforts to safeguard endangered species from the threat of extinction caused by human activities. They have taken important actions to restore endangered species regulations, ensuring the protection of habitats and at-risk wildlife. This move is vital for preserving biodiversity and securing healthy ecosystems for future generations. Although more work remains, it marks a significant achievement for the protection of US ecosystems.

Record Growth in Electric Vehicles: 

The electric vehicle (EV) industry experienced a record-breaking year, with global EV sales surpassing 10 million units. This surge signals a shift towards sustainable transportation and decreased carbon emissions from the automotive sector.

Wind and Solar Energy’s Global Power

Wind and solar energy are set to become a significant source of global power, making up 33% of electricity production by 2030, according to a report from the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI). This development indicates that the energy sector is on track to meet the necessary changes to address global climate objectives. Sultan al-Jaber, president of COP28, the next UN climate summit, previously urged a threefold increase in renewable energy generation by 2030 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve the targets set in the 2015 Paris climate agreement.

Stay positive and hopeful! Together, we can make a real impact in preserving our planet for generations to come. Let’s celebrate these achievements and stay dedicated to sustainable practices, creating a more resilient and balanced world for all.

The post 9 Positive Environmental News Stories that Inspire Hope appeared first on Green Prophet.

Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular, but there are challenges to overcome. Suitable lands for solar panels are becoming scarce and expensive, and rising interest rates make it harder for solar projects to succeed. Even in desert areas, like what Brightsource confronted in the California desert, all animals and plants need to be protected as well. To address these challenges, developers are exploring non-traditional methods for solar installations.

In traditional solar setups, panels remain stationary in large fields throughout the day. However, solar trackers are special devices that optimize energy production. Trackers, made of metal pipes and tubes, move the panels to face the sun as it moves from morning to evening.

SolarGik stands out in the solar energy industry with its innovative solar trackers. These trackers are more advanced than traditional ones, according to the company, and offer exceptional performance. Their versatility makes them even more remarkable—they can be installed not just on the ground but also on rooftops, parking lots, greenhouses, and even over crops.

The demand for renewable energy is high, but outdated infrastructure, complex regulations, and the difficulty of finding affordable land near existing infrastructure poses obstacles. SolarGik understands the importance of financial viability and optimizes costs for materials, shipping, and onsite work, ensuring a profitable investment.

SolarGik’s primary goal is to make solar energy accessible and affordable for everyone while improving the quality of electricity worldwide. They achieve this by using advanced trackers and technology to maximize the potential of solar energy. Instead of limiting solar panels to flat fields, SolarGik places them in unconventional locations, expanding the reach of solar power and benefiting more people at a reasonable cost. This is their niche.

By continuously tracking the sun’s movement, solar trackers can generate 15 to 30% more energy compared to fixed panels. This increase in energy production has led many solar fields to adopt trackers, capturing more sunlight and producing electricity more efficiently.

SolarGik is a game-changer in the solar energy industry. Unlike other trackers, SolarGik’s solution can be installed on challenging terrains with slopes of up to 30% and irregular land shapes, eliminating the need for costly civil work and long-distance power transfer. The trackers are also incredibly lightweight, thanks to their innovative motion unit. This results  in a significant reduction in weight and cost compared to traditional options.

SolarGik’s trackers incorporate advanced software algorithms that enhance their performance. These algorithms enable the trackers to adapt to different angles, ensuring optimal energy production. Each panel’s angle can be adjusted individually, maximizing energy generation.

The trackers utilize satellite sensors and weather forecasting to respond to onsite changes, further optimizing energy output precisely. Their trackers effectively address issues such as shading and cooling, guaranteeing a higher overall energy yield. Additionally, these trackers feature shorter rows, providing flexibility in filling the landscape efficiently, resulting in less steel required and lighter trackers with thinner poles and a smaller, more affordable engine.

The motor used is a six-watt stepper motor, similar to those found in printers. In case of any issues, the motor can easily be replaced by unscrewing six screws. SolarGik’s innovative design ensures simplified maintenance and cost-effective operation.

SolarGik uses a supervisory control and data acquisition system (SCADA), a computer-based control system to monitor and control industrial processes and infrastructure. Energy, oil and gas, water and wastewater management, transportation, and manufacturing use SCADA systems. The SolarGik system, SOMA, connects and controls all essential components, thus, offering advanced monitoring, data collection, onsite optimization, and automated controls for efficient and profitable solar installations.

How does SolarGik compare to competitors?

Elisheva (de la Fuente) Sultan, the marketing manager at SolarGik, is in charge of branding and digital marketing at SolarGik. She explains this all to Green Prophet: “The cost of SolarGik’s trackers is 20 to 30% less than traditional options,” states Sultan. She continues to say there are no limitations to the types of solar panels that SoalrGik can use.

“On most solar fields, each piece of hardware usually has its own system to optimize that specific piece of hardware. Our SCADA system communicates with every hardware component, bringing all the information together into a centrally optimized decision-making system,” mentions Sultan.

They actively incorporate real-time weather and solar forecasting with grid data and crop data to support real-time decision-making and preempt and not just react to onsite conditions. “We’re incorporating multiple different hardware and software pieces, not just trackers,” says Sultan.

Other companies in this space from Israel include Doral and SolarEdge.

::Solargik

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What is impact investing? Impact investing, which is investment strategies that target companies or industries that produce social or environmental benefits, is essential for several reasons. It addresses social and environmental challenges while performing investments that promote social responsibility. It creates sustainable solutions while paving a word that unlocks innovation and entrepreneurship. 

Many studies show that impact investments are also giving better returns after a certain number of years. In short, they are the most resilient investments. ESG concentrates on a company’s environmental impact while yielding high returns. ESG is an acronym you will hear a lot in the impact space and it refers to a set of environmental, social, and governance standards that socially conscious investors use to select investments. The majority of businesses that engage in ESG investing have improved financial results. Financial performance is improved when investment decisions are made using ESG criteria.

Cecile Bilious, head of impact and sustainability at Pitango Venture Capital in Israel, works to integrate ESG and sustainable development goals (SDG) into mainstream venture capital. She is actively working to make impact investing more common and accessible in the VC world. Impact investments create paths towards a healthier planet and align values with investments.

Pitango, established in 1993, is Israel’s largest venture capital fund with over $2.8 billion under management.

Contrary to a popular misconception, many impact investments have demonstrated the potential for competitive financial performance while generating a positive impact. Cecile has been working passionately for the past 20 years to bring her vision of using technology to impact society and the planet positively. She tells Green Prophet: “Every investment we make and have made in the past we saw could make a major contribution to society or the planet,” says Cecile. She looks at her work as a holistic approach. She says her role in her career is to push the market forward to create as many solutions to as many challenges that humanity faces, environmentally or socially.  

How has the world of impact investing changed?

“I think if you spoke about impact ten years ago, social or environmental, people would look at you like you’re crazy. Like you’re on the fringe, and nobody knows what you’re talking about,” says Cecile. If a startup had an impact and wanted to get funded by mainstream investors, they most likely would not get supported if they spoke about their implications.

Cecile continued to explain that, to a certain extent, many VCs still need to be on par with the rest of the world regarding understanding the industry impact, but it is getting better each year. 

EarthX and a blueprint for sustainable investing

There is little time left to save the environment, and we must work fast. It is so vital that VCs push capital flows into ideas that can make a difference. Israel has shown tremendous potential to impact significantly because of the country’s entrepreneurial drive and funding mechanisms. 

Companies have started to know that technology can be a huge driver for change. This realization has led them to consider their role in making a difference.

“When we speak to entrepreneurs, these are intelligent people. Even if they have succeeded in building a gaming company or a cybersecurity company, suddenly you see that more and more second-time entrepreneurs don’t want just to set up another cyber company; they want to do a company that has an impact,” says Cecile. They are moving into healthcare, education, agriculture, and climate-related technology because these align with their values. It’s becoming more common to incorporate weights into the business model and make them an integral part of a company’s identity. 

In the past few years, there has been a shift in mindset. Now, when you present your impact-driven strategy in a boardroom seeking funding, everyone wants to invest in you.

The mindset around impact investments has changed from coming off as a liability to presenting itself as an asset. “It’s a good thing now to be able to speak about your impact and verbalize it and even quantify it for the SDGs (sustainable development goals) and just bring that to the table,” says Cecile.

People finally realize that we don’t have much time and need to address the social and environmental challenges facing humanity. They understand that technology can play a significant role in solving these challenges. 

“More and more mainstream VCs like us are starting to invest in climate-related or social-related companies,” says Cecile. The world is starting to move in the right direction, which is good news. However, it needs to happen faster, and that’s the downside.

What does Cecile look for when investing?

When investing, Cecile looks for investments that complement and align with each other. She believes in investing in various sectors such as mobility, climate cybersecurity, and healthcare, as each of these areas contributes to addressing the challenges faced by humanity. 

“You have to think about your investments as things that match with each other or blend with each other for example investing in mobility and investing in climate cybersecurity, healthcare, all kinds of things each one addresses a little bit of the challenges that we have as humanity and if you look at it as a generalist then it is not about one specific company that is going to change the world.”

She views investments as part of an ecosystem, considering what it takes to create companies that can effectively address these challenges. Cecile emphasizes the importance of providing support, funding, knowledge, and expertise to these companies, as well as facilitating access to markets. 

What now?

We’re running out of time, and if we don’t take more action quickly, we won’t have a plan for a better future by 2030. It’s crucial to encourage more investment in ideas that can truly make a difference, and that’s a positive trend. Israel has great potential to be part of this effort because we have the drive, the talent, the entrepreneurs, and the funding mechanisms in place. However, if our government continues on the current path for the past six months, it may create a situation where people are hesitant to invest in Israel. 

They might see it as unsafe, lacking transparency, and risky due to uncertainty around intellectual property protection, taxes, and payment regulations.

The world is slowly recovering, but in Israel, the government has caused a lot of problems in the past six months. There is a lack of trust and chaos in the legal system, and the support for the high-tech industry is uncertain. This has resulted in a decline in funding for startups. The number of new startups founded since the beginning of 2023 has been very low, and the amount of capital raised during these six months is unprecedentedly low. If the government continues with its current approach, there is a risk of losing the factors that made Israel a thriving hub for innovation.

The post The importance of impact investing with Pitango’s Cecile Bilious appeared first on Green Prophet.

Environmentally friendly water systems for the home are a must! They are extremely important for conservation of natural resources, protection of ecosystems, reduction of carbon footprint, health and safety purposes, and promote sustainable practices. Water systems minimize wastage to ensure responsible use of water in the home. With growing concerns of water scarcity in the Middle East, using water systems that prioritize sustainability are crucial.

Environmentally friendly water systems prioritize the removal of harmful contaminants while minimizing the use of chemicals that can have adverse health effects. By investing in these systems, homeowners can ensure that the water they consume and use for daily activities, such as bathing and cooking, is free from pollutants, toxins, and potentially harmful substances. This promotes better overall health and well-being for both individuals and the environment.

Here are some of the best at home water systems:

Reverse osmosis systems

Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are highly effective in removing contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and chemicals. These systems use a semipermeable membrane to filter out impurities. RO systems typically consist of pre-filters, a membrane, and post-filters to ensure comprehensive purification. They are considered one of the most reliable and widely used water treatment systems for households.

Whole house filtration systems

Whole house filtration systems offer a comprehensive solution by filtering water at the point of entry into the home. These systems are designed to remove sediment, chlorine, chemicals, and other impurities from all water sources, including faucets, showers, and appliances

​​Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection systems

UV disinfection systems utilize ultraviolet light to neutralize harmful microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and parasites in water. These systems are highly effective at destroying various pathogens without using chemicals, making them a safe and environmentally friendly choice. UV systems are often used in conjunction with other filtration methods to provide a multi-barrier approach to water purification.

Water softeners 

Hard water which contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium could benefit from a water softener. Water softeners work by removing these minerals through a process called ion exchange, preventing scale buildup on plumbing fixtures, prolonging the lifespan of appliances, and improving soap lathering. Softened water can also have a positive impact on skin and hair, leaving them feeling smoother and less dry.

Carbon filters 

Carbon filters are an excellent option for improving the taste and odor of water. These filters use activated carbon to remove chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other contaminants that can affect the taste and smell of water. Carbon filters are often installed under the sink or attached to the faucet. 

In water-scarce countries, it becomes even more crucial to be mindful of our water consumption. The availability and accessibility of clean water are limited, making it imperative for individuals to recognize the importance of conserving this precious resource. By being conscious of our water usage habits, adopting water-saving practices, and investing in efficient water systems, we can play a significant role in preserving water.. Taking proactive steps to minimize wastage and promote responsible water consumption is not only essential for the sustainable development of these regions but also demonstrates our commitment to being responsible global citizens.

The post Best Water Systems for the Home  appeared first on Green Prophet.

My mom is a composting and recycling enthusiast. When my family cleans up from dinner, we properly compost and recycle our food and materials. Every family can make an impact in their way.

Home composting

Composting plays an essential role in our efforts to manage organic waste. Home composting is gaining popularity in countries like Israel, with many households adopting composting practices to reduce organic waste sent to landfills. You can compost through a few methods, such as backyard compost bins or, if you are feeling adventurous, worm composting (vermicomposting); home composting allows individuals to turn their kitchen scraps, yard trimmings, and other organic materials into nutrient-rich compost for their gardens or potted plants.

You can compost food scraps, except for meat and dairy products. You can dispose of it at home. You can get a subsidized home composter from the Municipality to help with composting.

With the subsidized home composter, you can throw your organic food scraps into it and cover them with dry materials like branches, leaves, or grass. The composting process turns the organic waste into high-quality fertilizer for your garden or somebody else’s.

Composting organic waste is a simple and effective way to reduce landfill waste and help the environment. It also eliminates the hassle of dealing with heavy, smelly trash bags. Plus, your plants will benefit from excellent fertilizer.

Recycling 

Each local government has its system for collecting and recycling waste. You must visit your Municipality’s website to know the specific color bins provided and the types of waste your area recycles. Refer to the chart below to understand which trash belongs in each color bin.

Figure out locally what material goes into what color bin. 

You can recycle various packaging materials like plastic containers for dairy products and salads, bags for dry food and snacks, metal containers, and beverage cartons, except for glass and cardboard.

What happens to each type of material?

Metal is recycled into raw material for the construction industry by companies that you will find locally.

Rigid plastic and plastic bags are converted into rubber sheeting for the construction industry at recycling plants.

Plastic bottles and beverage cartons are sent overseas for recycling. The plastic industry turns Plastic bottles into raw materials.

Important tip:

Remember only to discard empty containers in the recycling bins. Wet waste like food scraps or dirty diapers can harm the recycling process. Some countries like Canada accept diapers as organic waste and they go into the organic waste bin. Make sure to clean your containers thoroughly. And keep them sealed to keep out rodents and raccoons.

The post How to properly clean up from dinner mindfully appeared first on Green Prophet.

The Mediterranean diet is gaining popularity as a healthy and sustainable eating plan. Health professionals recommend it to individuals with chronic conditions like heart disease or high blood pressure to reduce the risks of heart disease, dementia, and depression. 

Our food choices have a significant impact on our physical and mental well-being, as well as our daily functioning. Adopting healthy and natural eating practices like the Mediterranean diet benefits both our bodies and the planet. 

What is the Mediterranean diet? 

The Mediterranean diet isn’t a strict diet plan but rather a way of eating based on the dietary traditions of Crete, Greece, and Southern Italy during the mid-20th century. They believed that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, whole grains, fish, olive oil, small amounts of dairy, and red wine offered extensive health benefits. 

The diet emphasizes healthy fats, with olive oil being a recommended primary fat source. It highlights other foods like avocados, nuts, and oily fish for their beneficial fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids in walnuts and fish.

The Mediterranean diet suggests consuming fish at least twice a week, while people should consume poultry, eggs, and dairy products in smaller portions daily or weekly. Eating red meat is limited to a few times per month. 

A typical breakfast on the Mediterranean diet could consist of mashed avocado spread on whole-grain toast, accompanied by fresh fruit and a low-fat Greek yogurt. For lunch or dinner, a recommended meal might include a vegetable and grain dish cooked with olive oil and seasoned with herbs. This could include roasted root vegetables, leafy greens, a side of hummus, and small portions of pasta or whole grain bread. As a source of lean protein, grilled fish is often suggested.

The diet encourages water as the primary beverage, with moderate consumption of wine allowed during meals. 

The ultimate hummus recipe

According to a Harvard nutrition study the Mediterranean diet effectively reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases and overall mortality. For instance, a study involving nearly 26,000 women found that those who followed this diet had a 25% lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease over 12 years.

Similarly, a meta-analysis of 16 studies with over 22,000 women showed that individuals with the highest adherence to the Mediterranean diet had a 24% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 23% lower risk of premature death than those with insufficient compliance. Sustainability has become a significant focus of the food discussion, particularly concerning climate change and food security. Researchers, farmers, and policymakers are seeking effective ways to feed the growing global population of 9.7 billion by 2050. 

In what ways is the diet personally and environmentally sustainable?

The diet conserves water by choosing less water-intensive foods like whole grains compared to beef. Fruits and vegetables are also more water-efficient choices  It also conserves land by reducing reliance on agricultural land for animal-based products. 

The Mediterranean diet decreases the need for fertilizers by incorporating nitrogen-absorbing legumes like chickpeas. Legumes such as beans, lentils, and peas, decrease fertilizer requirements and enrich the soil when decomposing, benefiting subsequent crops. This sustainable process allows pulses to be grown eco-friendly and reduces the resources needed for other Mediterranean diet staples like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. 

The Mediterranean diet is personally sustainable because it offers an enjoyable eating experience. It includes delicious foods, promotes physical health, and encourages mindful consumption. While following this eating pattern can lead to weight loss and improved health, it primarily involves adopting a long-term lifestyle change with sustainable benefits!

The post Why the Mediterranean Diet? appeared first on Green Prophet.

Online shopping has become increasingly popular, with platforms like Amazon offering convenience and a wide range of products at our fingertips. However, as conscious consumers, it is important to shop mindfully and consider the ethical and sustainable aspects of our purchases. 

Why to shop mindfully

The rapid production of clothing in the fast fashion industry requires a substantial amount of raw materials, leading to a considerable accumulation of waste, pollution, and harm to the environment, including air, water, and wildlife habitats.

Research the Seller:

Before making a purchase, take the time to research the seller. Look for information regarding their commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. Check if they have certifications like Fair Trade, Organic, or B Corp, which indicate a commitment to social and environmental responsibility. The Butterfly Mark is a new certification for luxury goods. Or maybe they are running a small business from home making the goods locally. 

Consider Product Origins:

When browsing products on Amazon, pay attention to where they are manufactured or sourced from. Search for products that are locally produced or made in countries with strong environmental and labor regulations. Choosing products that minimize long-distance transportation helps reduce carbon emissions and supports local economies.

Read Product Descriptions:

Carefully read product descriptions to gain insights into the materials used, manufacturing processes, and any sustainability claims. Look for keywords like “recycled,” “organic,” “sustainably sourced,” or “eco-friendly.” Also look for ways they back up these claims without greenwashing.

Check for Sustainable Packaging:

Packaging waste is a substantial environmental concern. Look for products that are shipped with minimal packaging or packaging made from recycled materials. Some sellers offer sustainable packaging options, such as biodegradable or compostable packaging. Consider consolidating orders to reduce the number of individual packages and minimize waste.

Evaluate Product Durability and Quality:

Mindful shopping involves considering how long the products will last as well as the quality of products. Choose items that are built to last, reducing the need for replacements. Read customer reviews to understand the durability and reliability of the product. Investing in higher-quality items not only reduces waste but also saves money in the long run. 

Support Socially Responsible Brands:

Support brands that prioritize social responsibility and treat their workers fairly. Look for companies that follow ethical labor practices, provide safe working conditions, and pay fair wages. Look out for  sellers on Amazon that explicitly mention their commitment to social causes or fair trade practices in their product descriptions.

Utilize Amazon’s Sustainability Features:

Amazon has implemented sustainability initiatives, such as its “Climate Pledge Friendly” program and “Compact by Design” certification. These labels identify products that have lower carbon footprints and are designed to be more efficient in terms of packaging and shipping. Take advantage of these features to find more sustainable options.

The post Shopping Mindfully on Amazon appeared first on Green Prophet.

Save money and make yourself sugar wax at home with only three ingredients. All you need is granulated white sugar, water, and lemon juice. Sugar wax is less painful than traditional hot waxing because it does not remove hair follicles. Sugar wax is an excellent alternative for people with sensitive skin. 

My roommates and I decided to try sugar waxing, and to our delight, we successfully pulled it off using ingredients readily available in our apartment. The experience turned out to be enjoyable and surprisingly efficient. In just 30 minutes, we completed the entire process, saving both time and money compared to visiting a salon.

Not only was the home sugar waxing less painful than a salon treatment, but it also left our skin feeling incredibly smooth and with a delightful fragrance. Overall, it was a fantastic and rewarding experience that we would definitely repeat in the future.

Sugar wax originates in the Middle East and is fully biodegradable ! Though the exact origin of sugaring is hard to determine, most historians concur that this ancient hair removal method was already in use during the old civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece around 1900 BCE.

It was known as “sukkar” in the Middle East and “moun” in Persia. Since sugar was limited to the regions near Persia until 1,000 after CE honey served as the primary sugaring agent to create the waxing paste during that era.

Is sugar wax better than regular waxing?

Sugar wax is made of ingredients that break down easily when thrown away. Synthetic waxes are not biodegradable and are more harmful to the environment. 

Sugar wax can be made at home and uses inexpensive and common home ingredients instead of visiting a salon or using cosmetic waxing kits found at the store. 

Ingredients 

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar 
• ⅛ cup (30 ml) lemon juice
• ⅛ cup (30 ml) warm water 

Making your sugar wax

Put a medium-sized pot on your stove and add white sugar, lemon juice, and warm water. 

Mix frequently and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

Turn the heat down to medium once the mix is boiling and bubbling. If the blend keeps bubbling, turn it down to low heat. 

When the mix becomes golden brown, remove the pot from the stove. Continue to mix the golden brown mix until it becomes smooth and has a deep brown color. 

The consistency should resemble hot syrup; if it appears thick, like honey, it must be heated for longer.

Pour the mix into a bowl or a jar and let it cool for 30 minutes. Sugar wax should be used at room temperature, unlike traditional hot wax.

Applying your sugar wax

Scoop a small amount of warm wax with your fingers and roll it into a ball. 

Put the wax onto a small skin area opposite to hair growth. Spread the wax to create a layer that is about 0.6 cm thick. Work on small sections, limiting their length and width to just a few inches. 

Pull!

Swiftly remove the wax in the opposite direction of hair growth, similar to pulling off a bandage. Make it quick to limit the pain. There is an option to apply paper strips on top of the wax to smooth it out and pull it off.

Apply the wax in small sections until finished. 

All leftover mix can be refrigerated and used at a later time. Use it within 4 to 5 weeks. 

Prepping your skin for sugar wax

• Wash your skin with soap and water and use warm water to open your pores and to risk your chance of infection
• Exfoliate up to two days before waxing to make the sugar wax stick better 
• Moisturize the night before, not the day off, because you want to wax with clean skin

Post-wax aftercare

• Moisturizer with natural oils, body butter, or serum to keep your skin soft and avoid ingrown hairs
• Wait two days to exfoliate again to prevent ingrown hairs and continue to do so every 2-3 days
• Do not use products that might irritate your skin

Risks of sugaring

Sugaring when done correctly does not have a lot of risks. People who have sunburns in areas they want to wax or have moles, warts, or varicose veins in places they want to wax should avoid waxing in total. Also people with preexisting skin conditions should speak with a doctor before sugaring. 

Any type of waxing presents risk of side effects such as It is also worth noting that any form of waxing can cause side effects such as:

Ingrown hairs: When hair grows back and curls back into the skin, causing raised and itchy spots.

Folliculitis: Inflammation in hair follicles, leading to tender bumps on the skin. It can occur anywhere on the body where hair grows, either on the surface or deep within.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Darkening of the skin after an injury. Even though sugar waxing is gentler, it can still cause some skin trauma, resulting in inflammation and possible discoloration. People with darker skin tones are more likely to experience this.

Infection: If sugar waxing is done incorrectly or with poor hygiene of the waxing tools and area, it can lead to skin irritation and infection.

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