Plastics

Question 1

What has plastic to do with Ag. Science?

Answer 1

Food production involves plastic at every stage.
As plastic is not degradable and comes from a non-renewable resource (oil) it is part of the “linear economy”, whereas a circular economy is needed for sustainability.
“Recycling” is not the answer - plastic can only be recycled 3 times before the quality is reduced and it needs to be mixed with brand new plastic. This is why less packaging overall is preferred.

Question 2

How much food goes to waste? What is one of Ireland’s goals?

Answer 2

Unfortunately, 17% of food produced in the world goes to waste. Waste happens at every stage of production.
One of Ireland’s goals for the year 2030 is to reduce food waste in the home and service industry by 50%.
Nearly two-thirds of all food waste occurs at the household level. This means that behavioural changes at the consumer levels are urgently needed.