Goal 2: Zero Hunger


In this blog post, I will shine a spotlight on Goal 2 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which is to achieve Zero Hunger!



 I will delve into the critical issue of hunger and food security, explore the principle of achieving food sustainability, and discuss its profound impact on communities. To provide a well-rounded analysis, thorough research will be conducted on each topic, credible sources will be cited, and examples, statistics, and real-world case studies will be used to support the points. Furthermore, I will offer my own insights, perspectives, and suggestions for addressing the SDGs and related issues.

WHAT HAS BEEN DONE SO FAR?

Efforts on this goal have been hampered by external factors which have affected progress. Although the overall level of global hunger has reduced from around 15% in 2000, progress has slowed and has even been reversed in some areas. According to the 2018 UN progress report, conflicts, drought and disasters have had a negative impact in many regions. Statistics include:

  • 11% of the global population (815 million people) were undernourished in 2016, up from 10.6% in 2015. The region with the highest levels of undernourishment is sub-Saharan Africa, at 18.55% (although this has reduced from over 30% in the 1990s).
  • According to the 2017 Global Hunger Index, 52 out of 119 countries are still experiencing extreme hunger.
  • The number of people experiencing food insecurity increased by 11 million worldwidebetween 2016–17. A number of countries still have over 50% of the population in food insecurity, with South Sudan measured at 93.9% food insecurity.
  • The number of children under-5 suffering from malnutrition dropped slightly between 2016–17, with children suffering from stunting dropping from 155 million to 151 million and those suffering from wasting falling from 52 million to 51 million.
  • There has been a shrinking of biodiversitywhich poses a great risk to future global food and agriculture.
  • There has been progress in reducing market-distorting agricultural subsidies, which were more than halved between 2010 and 2015.
  • Although hunger levels have decreased across the world in the last 25 years, they have risen in North Africa and the Middle East from 7.5% in 1991 to 8.16% in 2017. 
This highlights the role that conflict, and climate change has on food production and hunger levels.

1. The Issue of Hunger and Food Security:
Hunger is a global challenge that affects millions of individuals and communities. To comprehend the depth of this issue, it is essential to examine key aspects:
- Magnitude of Hunger: Statistics from reputable sources such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Food Programme (WFP) can be used to highlight the prevalence of hunger and malnutrition on a global scale.
- Factors Contributing to Hunger: Exploring the root causes of hunger, such as poverty, inadequate agricultural practices, climate change, conflict, and lack of access to resources and infrastructure.

2. The Principle of Achieving Food Sustainability:
Food sustainability encompasses various dimensions, including agricultural practices, food production and distribution systems, and equitable access to nutritious food. Key points to consider include:
- Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting environmentally friendly farming practices, such as organic farming, agroecology, and permaculture, to enhance productivity while minimizing negative environmental impacts.
- Food Waste Reduction: Addressing the issue of food waste throughout the supply chain and emphasizing the importance of responsible consumption and production.
- Ensuring Food Security: Enhancing resilience in food systems, ensuring access to safe and nutritious food for all, and promoting sustainable food policies at local, national, and global levels.

3. Real-World Case Study: The "Zero Hunger" Initiative in Brazil:
The "Zero Hunger" initiative implemented in Brazil provides a compelling case study. It focuses on addressing hunger and poverty through a multi-dimensional approach, combining social protection programs, agricultural investments, and support for small-scale farmers. This initiative has led to significant reductions in hunger and poverty rates in Brazil.

4. Insights, Perspectives, and Suggestions:
- Promoting Sustainable Agriculture: Encouraging the adoption of sustainable farming practices, supporting smallholder farmers, and investing in agricultural research and innovation.
- Strengthening Food Systems: Enhancing infrastructure, storage, and transportation facilities to minimize post-harvest losses and improve market access for small-scale farmers.
- Empowering Women: Recognizing the crucial role of women in food production and ensuring their equal access to resources, education, and decision-making.
- Enhancing Collaboration: Encouraging partnerships between governments, NGOs, businesses, and local communities to foster sustainable food systems and address the root causes of hunger.

To conclude, Goal 2, Zero Hunger, represents a crucial commitment to combatting hunger and achieving food security for all. By examining the issue of hunger, exploring the principle of achieving food sustainability, and presenting real-world examples and insights, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of this goal. It is through collective action, innovation, and sustainable practices that we can make significant strides in eliminating hunger and creating a world where everyone has access to nutritious food. Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we will continue our exploration of the Sustainable Development Goals and their impact on our global community.

Stay tuned!💫😄

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