Musings about a Greener Life

Coming back from a long weekend trip to Koh Samui, Thailand, I couldn’t help but to ponder more about nature and the way of life. Reminiscing about the beauty in simplicity, eating and living almost naturally (except the luxury offered at the resorts), the natural way of life was idyllic and tempting.

What is the natural way of life? It is one where there is little need for overconsumption. Take what you need from nature’s providence, be it fresh fruits, herbs or locally produced meats and seafood. How much can one actually consume if not for the wastages, contributed by supply chain and market consumption habits? Go to a local food market or restaurant, you will hardly waste anything (especially when the food is so fresh and tasty).

Food wastage is a prevalent global problem, and more pressing in developed economies, where surplus in production or supply chain management often leads to costs to businesses, consumers and the environment. In the United States, approximately 40% of the food supply is wasted. This waste not only represents a loss of resources but also exacerbates climate change further with the GHG emissions from waste decomposition.

Living in Singapore, a highly developed economy, we face similar issues even though we have limited produce. Despite being a relatively small city-state, our food waste amounts to around 3,000 tons daily (roughly equivalent to the weight of over 100 double-decker buses). While the government and private social organizations such as the Food Bank are working on solutions to address the problems, it may still be the collective effort of every individual that could truly and fundamentally move the needle.

Of course, the comfort and convenience of the modern lifestyle often entrap us into excessive consumption, knowingly or not. Even our weekend getaways to charming natural destinations are at cost to the environment. It may be just my passing romantic fantasy to live like a true islander inspired by a memorable holiday. Nevertheless, I wish to remain inspired by an alternative way to live and enjoy, and to inspire others too.?

The message at the end of the day, consume what we need. Contrary to popular belief that we need what we want to be happy, there is much priceless joy in living a simpler life.

Try it now.

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