International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2023: Together Against the Global Challenge

Every year on October 17, the "International Day for the Eradication of Poverty" is observed worldwide. This day reminds us that despite the progress our societies have made, poverty still poses a global challenge. Our "Buy Food with Plastic" concept (a warm meal in exchange for plastic) is our contribution to the fight against poverty. At the same time, we are advancing environmental protection.

The Origins of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty was first proclaimed by the United Nations on October 17, 1992, to raise awareness of the pressing social problems in the world. This day reminds us that poverty is not just an abstract concept, but affects the lives of millions of people around the world. It offers an opportunity to intensify efforts to combat poverty and take measures to improve the lives of those who are most affected.

The significance of this day lies not only in pointing out existing social injustices, but also in mobilizing communities and governments to take concrete measures to combat poverty. Poverty does not only mean a lack of financial resources, but often also a lack of education, healthcare, and basic living conditions. The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty reminds us that we must find solutions together to overcome this situation.

A warm meal can relieve a family budget and thus reduce financial pressure. In the picture: A family at a Buy Food with Plastic event in Nicaragua. 

Buy Food with Plastic: A Simple Solution to Two Global Problems

In the midst of this global challenge, our non-profit organization is committed to combating plastic pollution and extreme poverty. Our concept is simple and effective: At our so-called "Community Events" in the communities, people in need exchange their plastic waste for a warm meal. We also offer employment in the form of daily wages and permanent positions for people who often have little or no formal education. The free meal and paid employment relieve the family budget and reduce financial burdens. At the same time, permanent positions open up new perspectives for people with limited opportunities in the labor market that they would otherwise not have. 

In our factories, we offer employees not only employment, but also the opportunity to acquire skills and increase their income. In Nicaragua, India, and soon also in Ghana, we employ people as upcyclers and drivers. They learn to operate machines and receive training in recycling, and especially plastic upcycling. For those who do not have a driver's license, we enable them to obtain one. These skills can be further developed to achieve career advancement. For many of them, this can make a decisive difference in their lives, as the income opportunities offered by Buy Food with Plastic enable them to support their families, send their children to school, and break the vicious cycle of poverty. 

Additional earnings, whether as a daily wage or as regular income, can help people escape poverty. In the picture: Volunteers are distributing warm meals in Bhandup, Mumbai, India.

Your Commitment Counts: Combating Poverty and Plastic Pollution Together

To advance our important work, we need your support. Join our movement and help us combat poverty in our areas of operation and make the world fairer. There are many ways you can get involved:

• Membership: Become a member of Buy Food with Plastic. You can make a big difference with as little as CHF 50 per year.
• Monetary donations: Every amount, no matter how small, can make a difference.
• Become a supporter: Support our mission to reduce plastic pollution and combat poverty in the long term.
• Corporate partnerships: Companies that would like to actively become part of our mission can contact Anna Gracia Herbst. Together, we are committed to a more sustainable world.
• Social Shop: In the shop, you can make targeted individual donations, whether for a meal, insurance, or school supplies. Your support makes a difference.
• In-kind and service donations: We welcome in-kind donations, whether in the form of machines, vehicles, or administrative services.
• Volunteering: Dedicate part of your free time to our projects. We look forward to hearing from you!
• Lid collection campaign: Participate in our plastic lid collection campaign. We use the proceeds from the sale of the lids to fund meals and recycling infrastructure.

One of the many ways you can support us: Our volunteer Lars was in Ghana in February 2023, where he helped out at a community event, among other things.