The Fresh Produce Impact Hub (FRESHPPACT)

A leaked draft of the European Commission’s omnibus regulation package proposal reveals substantial reductions in sustainability reporting requirements. The full release is expected on 26 February 2025. 

It may appear to the outsider that our programme is a loose cohort of grantee-funded projects tackling the pollution challenges related to manufacturing in different ways. But this is not the case at all. Many of these projects generate evidence that is used to inform and influence policy at local, national, regional, and international scales. We have compiled a short report summarising The SMEP Programme's role in the Plastics Policy Landscape in partnership with UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Given the slow and uncertain pace of the international policy landscape, our efforts at a regional, national and local level are all the more relevant. We invite you to follow the link to find out more about this good work. https://lnkd.in/dfx-829s With thanks and recognition to the team: Alexa May von Geusau Henrique Pacini Maria Durleva Staci Warrington Glen Wilson Amanda Dinan and wider networks ALN ECOS The FlipFlopi Project The Fresh Produce Impact Hub (FRESHPPACT) GIVO Africa Catchgreen

Experts suggest we can't fully escape microplastics but can reduce exposure with small, practical changes, like avoiding plastic food containers, using glass or stainless steel cookware, and swapping out nonstick pans. Focus on food and kitchen items, as they’re the highest sources, and take it one step at a time to make manageable adjustments for a healthier lifestyle. Learn more here 👇 https://lnkd.in/eYcf3r-H #Microplastics #HealthTips #SustainableLiving

"Europe’s multibillion-euro attempt to green its farming is turning into an exercise in creative accounting rather than genuine environmental progress, according to a new report by BirdLife Europe and NABU." Credit: Politico #sustainablefarming #farming #greenwashing #environmental 

The fresh produce and farming industries generate significant waste, but innovative recycling practices can turn by-products into valuable resources. From composting and water recycling to biodegradable packaging, adopting circular solutions helps reduce waste, protect the environment, and improve sustainability across the sector. Here’s how! 🌱 #Sustianablefarming #farming #freshproduce #recycling #foodwaste

Vertical farming is transforming agriculture, offering year-round production while reducing land use, food miles, and pesticide reliance.  Companies are shifting towards higher-value crops (strawberries, tomatoes, herbs) and integrating AI, automation, and renewable energy to enhance efficiency and sustainability. With advances in LED lighting, robotics, and climate control, vertical farming continues to evolve as a key player in future food security. Credit: Environment Energy Leader #Verticalfarming #Farming #Sustainablefarming #Sustainableagriculture

A new study detected microplastics in human brains at much higher concentrations than in other organs. Microplastics are tiny fragments of degraded polymers accumulating in the air, water, and soil. They have been found in human organs, including the liver, kidneys, and placenta — but a Nature Medicine study reveals their concentration in the brain is rising at a much faster rate. #Microplastics #Health #Foodsafety

Plastic is embedded in our daily lives—from the fibres in our clothing to the products on our bathroom shelves and the containers and utensils we use in the kitchen. "Switching to non toxic home essentials will decrease the risk of exposure and ingestion, and benefit your health in the long run. Here are six simple switches that, according to our experts, will start making a difference in your kitchen right away." https://lnkd.in/eF4ZUbvj Credit: Homes And Gardens #Microplastics #Plastics #Foodsafety

A recent study has revealed widespread microplastic contamination in seafood, highlighting an increasing threat to both food safety and human health.   The peer-reviewed research found microplastics in 99% of tested samples - 180 out of 182 seafood items purchased from stores or sourced from fishing boats in Oregon. Shrimp contained the highest levels of contamination.   With microplastics now infiltrating our food systems, urgent action is needed to address plastic pollution and its far-reaching consequences.   https://lnkd.in/euEE7vsQ #Microplastics #FoodSafety #Sustainability #PlasticPollution

The fresh produce industry is crucial for global food security, but soil health faces growing challenges. Healthy soils don’t just grow nutritious crops - they also filter water, store carbon, and support biodiversity.  Sustainable farming is the key to protecting soil and boosting productivity.   Here are three ways sustainable farming practices improve soil health. https://lnkd.in/ezwtJVrN #SoilHealth #SustainableFarming #FoodSecurity #FreshProduce