"Blockchain Technology for Sustainable Community Projects: Addressing Food Security, Plastic Waste and Social Inclusion" by Team ODK. 11/01/2023.
One of the key ways that community projects can address food security is by promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing food waste. Food shortages are caused by a variety of factors, including climate change, economic inequality, and population growth. According to the United Nations, the global population is projected to reach nearly 10 billion by 2050, leading to a 70% increase in the demand for food. This increase in demand will put further pressure on our food system, which is already stretched due to food waste and inefficiency. A staggering one-third of all food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted globally. Community projects such as community gardens and sustainable agriculture can help to increase food security, while at the same time reducing food waste and the environmental impact of industrial agriculture. These projects can empower communities to grow their own food and provide a source of fresh, healthy food while also providing a range of other benefits, such as opportunities for community members to learn new skills and acquire knowledge about sustainable gardening practices, and opportunities for social interaction and community building.
Another important area where blockchain technology can help is in addressing plastic waste and pollution. Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to the environment, and it is estimated that by 2050, the amount of plastic in the ocean will outweigh the amount of fish. Community projects such as recycling programs and initiatives to reduce plastic waste can help to mitigate this problem by promoting eco-friendly behaviours and practices at the local level. Blockchain technology can support these efforts by providing transparency, security, and accountability in the tracking and verification of plastic waste reduction, as well as promoting transparency and traceability in the supply chain management of plastic products, through recording the origin and quality of products on a blockchain. For example, Plastic Bank, a social enterprise uses blockchain technology to create a global recycling economy where individuals in developing countries are rewarded for collecting plastic waste which is then recycled and sold to brands for use in their products.
Another area where blockchain technology can help is addressing greenwashing. Greenwashing refers to the practice of making false or misleading claims about the environmental benefits of a product or service. Blockchain technology can help to prevent greenwashing by providing transparency and traceability of the environmental impact of the project. By recording the environmental impact of the project on a blockchain, organizations and individuals can verify the accuracy of the claims being made. However, it is important to note that blockchain alone cannot prevent greenwashing, it is important to have proper regulations and certifications in place to ensure that the claims of the environmental impact of the project are accurate and legitimate.
Community projects can also play an important role in promoting social inclusion and equity. By involving marginalized and disadvantaged groups in the decision-making process, these projects can ensure that their needs and concerns are taken into account, and that the benefits of the project are distributed equitably among the community. Blockchain technology can support these efforts by allowing community members to vote on proposals and make decisions about how project funds are allocated through smart contracts. This democratic approach can help to reduce social inequality and foster a sense of community and belonging among residents.