Organic UK

It's Plastic Free July, we asked Lizzie Rivera to explore what brands and retailers can do to be part of the solution and not the problem.

So, the New Zealand government is banning single-use plastics. Yet, despite all the headlines, and in the face of all the grand plastic-free promises, the UK is still generating more plastic waste per person than any other country except the USA.

That’s the staggering conclusion of Trashed: How the UK is still dumping plastic waste on the rest of the world report, released this year. It reveals that in 2018, the UK generated an estimated 5.2 million tonnes of plastic waste – enough plastic to fill Wembley Stadium six times over. Less than 10% of this is recycled; the rest is incinerated (46%), exported (19%) and goes to landfill (17%).

Read the full article.

WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE ORGANIC?

Organic means supporting wildlife

Organic farms are havens for wildlife and provide homes for bees, birds, and butterflies. On average, plant, insect and bird life is 50% more abundant on organic farms.

The highest standards of animal welfare

Animals raised organically enjoy the highest welfare standards available. Organic standards insist that animals are given plenty of space and fresh air, and that they are raised in conditions that suit their natural behaviour. Smaller flocks and herds, and more access to the outdoors means organic animals don't have to be routinely treated with antibiotics and wormers. Mutilations like beak-trimming to prevent the aggressive side effects of stress are also not needed or allowed.

Reduced exposure to pesticides

Choosing organic is an easy way to limit our exposure to pesticides, herbicides (weed killers) and many additives and preservatives. Organic farmers aim to create a natural balance between plants and animals to prevent pests, so that they don't need to rely on pesticides.

Enjoying food as it should be

Choosing organic means that you are supporting farming practices with a more traceable production process and you will always know what's in your food. Organic standards prohibit GM crops and ingredients, hydrogenated fats, and controversial artificial foods colours and preservatives.