In a world brimming with information, journalists like Theresa Moses wield their pens as catalysts for change, embarking on a mission to illuminate the interconnected realms of nutrition, health, and the environment. With each stroke of the pen, a journalist’s words transcend mere ink on paper, shaping perceptions and inspiring actions that ripple through society.
Nestlé’s commitment to advancing nutrition, health, and environmental awareness through its media programme is a positive step towards promoting sustainable living and well-being. By using the media as a platform, Nestlé has effectively reached a wide audience, educating and inspiring individuals to make informed choices about their health and the environment. An initiative that has created positive change by raising awareness and encouraging actions that align with Nestlé’s goals.
My journey began with an insatiable curiosity during the 2023 Nestlé Sustainability Training, themed ‘Nestlé Advancing Nutrition, Health, and Environmental Awareness Through the Media’, delivered annually by the Lagos Business School Sustainability Centre (LBSSC). The three-week intensive programme for journalists and media practitioners working on the thematic areas of nutrition, health, and environment was an exposition on data analysis, sustainability trends, and solution journalism that came to a close with an in-person session on July 26th–28th, 2023.
During the training, participants went on a field trip to Lekki Urban Forestry and Animal Shelter Initiative (LUFASI) Park, located in Sangotedo, Lagos, for an experiential learning session. LUFASI Park, established in 2013 by Engr Desmond Majekodunmi, an admirer of creatures and an ecological lobbyist, is dedicated to the preservation of natural habitats in urban areas for use as a field laboratory to interact with and learn from nature. It is a sanctuary for flora and fauna, endangered aquatic life, and avian species, where participants saw firsthand the effect of climate change on natural ecosystems and engaged in fun activities such as game fishing.
The programme equipped media professionals with a profound understanding of the relationship between the environment and food systems, which is needed to enhance their ability to communicate to the Nigerian populace on best practices, lifestyle choices, and policy direction that fosters sustainability of food systems, lives, and communities. This prompt me to delve into the intricate links between what we consume, our well-being, and the world around us.
Through rigorous research and interviews, I uncovered the hidden relationships between dietary choices, health outcomes, and their impact on the environment. In my eagerness to shed light on these intricate topics, I embarked on a personal odyssey of learning. I began to engage in dialogues with experts, nutritionists, health enthusiasts, and environmentalists, and I immersed myself in scientific literature. This foundation of knowledge gave me the confidence to translate complex concepts into compelling narratives accessible to all.
Writing stories that resonated on a human level is also what I learned from the media programme at LBSSC. The tales of Engr Majekodunmi, an unsung hero making a difference through LUFASI Park, became beacons of hope and inspiration, driving me to reflect on the crucial link between environmental well-being and personal health. This further highlights how environmental conservation and sustainable practices contribute to a healthier and safer world for individuals and communities. One of the powerful messages that I took away from the park was encouraging people to recognise their roles in safeguarding the environment, which in turn leads to better health outcomes, and a more sustainable future for all.
Sustainable practices offer a wide range of advantages that cannot be ignored and extend to the environment, society, and economy. It helps conserve natural resources, reduce pollution, and minimise habitat destruction, contributing to the long-term health of ecosystems. Sustainable practices help safeguard biodiversity, ensuring the survival of various plant and animal species.
Sustainable practices reduce air and water pollution, leading to healthier ecosystems and improved human health. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy sources, sustainable practices play an important role in mitigating the effects of climate change.
Sustainability encourages cleaner environment, better water quality, and healthier food, resulting in improved human health and well-being, as well as cost saving and decreased environmental impact. It emphasises waste reduction, reuse, and recycling, minimising the burden on landfills and conserving resources.
The pursuit of sustainability drives innovation in technologies, creating opportunities for new industries and economic growth that lead to a fairer distribution of resources, improved working conditions, and an enhanced quality of life for marginalised communities. It also encourages responsible consumer choices by promoting products and services that align with ethical and environmental values.
Sustainable practices align with evolving environmental regulations, reducing the risk of legal issues and penalties. Businesses and individuals that prioritise sustainability often enjoy a positive reputation, attracting environmentally conscious customers and partners. Embracing sustainability positions entities as well as leaders to address pressing global challenges and contributing to international efforts.
Nestlé’s purpose is to unlock the power of food to enhance the quality of life for everyone today and for generations to come. One of the largest food and beverage manufacturing corporations in Africa and the world is committed to delivering affordable nutrition to its customers and their families, working together with stakeholders to build thriving communities, and ensuring we have a planet that is sustainable for generations to come.
In the hands of a journalist, ink transforms into a beacon of knowledge, compassion, and action. Through the unwavering dedication of Nestlé Nigeria, let’s carve a path that bridges the gap between individual well-being and the health of the planet, leaving an indelible mark that will inspire change for generations to come.
As a passionate journalist, I have always believed in the power of the media to drive positive change. The urgent need to raise awareness about nutrition, health, and environmental issues is NOW.
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