@Green March/April 2024 | Page 29

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March-April . 2024 | @ green

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mitigating food wastage .
Schools serve as influential platforms for educating children on sustainable practices . By incorporating curriculum components focused on food waste reduction and implementing practical initiatives like composting or food donation drives , schools instil a sense of environmental consciousness and responsibility in students , nurturing them to advocate for sustainable consumption habits .
Familial support is also indispensable in reinforcing these values at home . Parents play a crucial role in modelling responsible food management behaviours , involving children in meal planning and preparation , and fostering an appreciation for the value of food resources .
Through collaborative efforts within the family unit , children learn firsthand the importance of minimising waste and maximising resource efficiency during Ramadhan and beyond .
EMPOWERING RAMADHAN : FOSTERING KNOWLEDGE , ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE TO MINIMISE FOOD WASTE DURING RAMADHAN
Food wastage poses a challenge not only in Malaysia but on a global scale . The volume of food waste tends to escalate during Ramadhan , a month traditionally associated with moderation and self-control . Encouraging the adoption of improved behavioural practices among consumers and food providers is essential to alleviate food waste , particularly during Ramadhan .
“ Behold , the squanderers are , indeed , of the ilk of the Satans - in as much as Satan has indeed proved most ungrateful to his
Sustainer ”. ( Quran , Al-Isra , 17:27 )
In the context of food wastage , this Quranic verse draws a parallel between squandering resources and ingratitude to Allah s . w . t . By extension , wasting food can be seen as an act of ungratefulness , as it disregards the blessings provided by the Creator . The verse implies that individuals who engage in excessive consumption and waste , akin to Satan ’ s ungrateful behaviour , do not appreciate the sustenance bestowed upon them .
During Ramadhan , educating ourselves and our communities about the consequences of food waste is a crucial first step . Understanding the environmental impact , resource strain , and potential health implications can inspire individuals to make informed choices .
This knowledge lays the foundation for a more conscious and responsible approach to food consumption . This educational process extends beyond consumers to encompass food providers , exemplified by the food sellers in Bazar Ramadhan . For instance , by informing vendors about the impact of excessive food preparation and the benefits of portion control , they can adjust their practices to align with sustainability goals .
Collaborative efforts can include promoting creative ways to repurpose unsold food , such as partnering with local charities to dispute surplus meals to those in need .
Through strategic partnerships , this initiative not only curbed food waste but also became a source of nourishment for vulnerable populations , including children who benefited from nutritious meals that might have otherwise gone to waste .
“ During Ramadhan , educating ourselves and our communities about the consequences of food waste i� a cr�cia� fir�� step . Understanding the environmental impact , resource strain , and potential health implications can inspire individuals to make informed choices .”
Attitudes towards food and its value play a pivotal role in minimising waste , Ramadhan provides an opportunity to reshape our attitudes , emphasising gratitude for the abundance we have and instilling a sense of responsibility for the less fortunate . Encouraging a mindset that values every morsel of food can transform how individuals approach meals during this holy month .
Notably , children , being keen observers , learn significantly from examples set by adults . It contributes to their development of responsible and appreciative attitudes toward food . This early exposure sets the foundation for lifelong habits , fostering a generation that values resources , minimises waste , and actively cares for the well-being of others . “ The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed of grain that sprouts seven ears , and in every ear there are a hundred grains . Thus , Allah multiplies the action whom He wills , Allah is All-Embracing , All-Knowing .” ( Quran , Al-Baqarah , 2:261 )
The exploration highlights successful initiatives and community-driven programs as beacons of hope , demonstrating that collective action can significantly reduce food waste . This call to action urges communities to make conscious choices , embracing sustainable practices in alignment with the principles of Ramadhan .
In conclusion , the invitation is extended to integrate mindfulness into Ramadhan traditions , ensuring responsible sharing of abundance and securing healthier , more sustainable actions that echo the principles of Ramadhan , benefiting both children and the world they inherit . – @ green