Fruits and vegetables can help meet global climate goals

On the occasion of the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow, Freshfel Europe urges decision-makers in the EU and around the world not to underestimate the role that fruits and vegetables can play for a healthy planet and a healthy population.

 

For Freshfel Europe, the COP26 negotiations which take place until 12 November 2021 are a unique opportunity for European and world leaders to pave the way for a more sustainable food system.

 

Fruits and vegetables have one of the lowest environmental impacts of any food group. In addition, fruits and vegetables are part of the recommendations issued by the WHO (World Health Organization) with a minimum consumption of 400g per day. Sustainable diets, with fruits and vegetables as a priority, should therefore be relied on to help achieve global climate goals.

 

In Europe, within the framework of the "Green Deal", the fruit and vegetable sector is a pioneer in the development of a new strategy aimed at strengthening the sustainability approach initiated more than 20 years ago.

 

"For years, the fruit and vegetable sector has followed very strict good agricultural practices and uses limited production inputs. The sector is committed to protecting natural resources, minimizing water and energy consumption, prevent greenhouse gas emissions, maximize carbon sequestration and improve biodiversity. Throughout the supply chain, initiatives to prevent food loss and waste, among others, are widespread to ensure both food security and the sustainability of the sector "underlined Philippe Binard, Managing Director of Freshfel Europe.

 

 

source : freshfel org