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• COLUMN @ green | January-February . 2025

A path to healthier living and a healthier planet

These practices are not just mere lifestyle trends but essential to addressing pressing global challenges like climate change , non-communicable diseases , and food security . This article explores what organic and sustainable eating entails , why they are critical , and how they align with broader values , including religious principles and ecological stewardship .

WHAT IS ORGANIC EATING ?

Organic food refers to produce and livestock grown without synthetic pesticides , chemical fertilisers and or genetically modified organisms ( GMOs ). This farming method prioritises biodiversity and natural processes to maintain soil fertility and ecosystem health .

Unlike conventional farming , which often relies on monocropping and heavy pesticide use , organic practices aim to work harmoniously with nature .

Organic farming offers several environmental advantages . Studies suggest it can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 40 per cent compared to conventional methods ( Mie et al ., 2017 ).

Organic farms are more biodiverse , promoting healthier soil and better water management . They also avoid harmful chemicals , protecting wildlife such as bees , which are vital for pollination ( Hazley & Kearney , 2024 ).

From a health perspective , consuming organic food reduces exposure to

BY NOOR YUSLIDA HAZAHARI

International Institute for Halal Research and Training ( INHART ), International Islamic University Malaysia harmful chemicals linked to developmental and neurological disorders ( Mie et al ., 2017 ). Organic produce often contains higher levels of antioxidants .

For instance , organic tomatoes have more lycopene , an antioxidant associated with reduced cancer risk . Moreover , organic farming minimises the contamination of water supplies with pesticides and fertilisers , which can have far-reaching effects on ecosystems and human health .

By choosing organic food , consumers indirectly support practices that protect waterways and reduce the burden of cleaning up agricultural pollutants .

WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE EATING ?

Sustainable eating encompasses more than just food type ; it includes how food is grown , transported , consumed , and disposed of . It reduces environmental harm , conserves resource , supports ethical labour practices , and promotes long-term food security .

Agriculture contributes approximately 25 % of global greenhouse gas emissions , with livestock farming and food transportation being significant contributors ( Masson-Delmotte et al ., 2019 ). Shifting to a plant-based diet can reduce an individual ’ s carbon footprint by up to 50 per cent , primarily by decreasing meat consumption .

Livestock farming , particularly cattle , is a leading cause of deforestation and methane emissions . By reducing red meat consumption , individuals can help mitigate climate change . For example , replacing one beef meal per week with plant-based protein can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions ( Masson-Delmotte et al ., 2019 ).

Consuming locally sourced and seasonal foods is the cornerstone of sustainability . Transportation accounts for up to 11 per cent of a food item ’ s total environmental cost ( Hazley & Kearney , 2024 ). Buying local reduces these emissions , supports regional farmers , and enhances food security . Seasonal eating also ensures that food is fresher , tastier , and less resourceintensive to produce .

Additionally , local food systems promote community resilience . Supporting small-scale farmers encourages diverse agricultural practices and fosters stronger local economies . Decentralising food production reduces the carbon footprint and strengthens food security .

One-third of all global food is wasted , contributing significantly to carbon emissions and food insecurity ( Pieniak et al ., 2016 ). Quoting the same author , if food waste were a country , it would be the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases after the US and China .

Simple meal planning , eating leftovers , and composting can drastically reduce this waste . Reducing food waste also has economic benefits . Households save money by purchasing what they need , while businesses can improve efficiency by better managing inventory .

Furthermore , initiatives like food redistribution programmes ensure surplus food reaches those in need instead of ending up in landfills .

BRIDGING ORGANIC AND SUSTAINABLE EATING

While both organic and sustainable eating practices aim to minimise environmental harm and improve human