Task 2 – Multi-task reading

In this part there are four short texts for you to read and 15 questions for you to answer.

Text A

The Hidden Cost of Our Leftovers

Food waste is a colossal global problem, with staggering environmental, economic, and social implications. Globally, an estimated one-third of all food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted, amounting to approximately 1.3 billion tonnes per year. This wasted food represents a significant squandering of resources, including water, land, energy, and labour used in its production. When food rots in landfills, it produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Moreover, the economic cost of food waste is immense, estimated to be around $1 trillion annually. This doesn't just affect businesses; households also lose money on food they buy but never eat.

Text B

My Journey to Zero Food Waste

"I used to be terrible with food waste. I'd buy too much at the supermarket, forget about things in the back of the fridge, and regularly throw out half-eaten meals. It wasn't until I started budgeting seriously that I realised how much money I was literally throwing away. I decided to make a change. Now, before I shop, I plan all my meals for the week and make a strict list. I’ve also become a pro at using up leftovers creatively – stir-fries, soups, and even freezing portions have become my go-to methods. It took some effort, but now I save money, reduce my environmental footprint, and feel much better about my consumption habits." – Sarah L.

Text C

Simple Steps to Smarter Shopping and Storage

Reducing food waste at home is easier than you think. Start by taking inventory of your fridge and pantry before you shop. Only buy what you need and have a plan for how you'll use it. Store food properly to extend its freshness: keep fruits and vegetables in the correct compartments, seal containers tightly, and understand "best before" versus "use by" dates. "Best before" often means quality might decline, but the food is still safe to eat. "Use by" indicates a safety limit. Embrace creative cooking with leftovers and consider composting unavoidable food scraps. Small changes in habit can make a big difference.

Text D

The Economic Drain of Wasted Food

The financial burden of food waste extends far beyond individual households. For businesses, food waste can lead to reduced profits, increased operational costs (for disposal), and inefficiencies in supply chains. Restaurants, for instance, often over-prepare food to ensure variety and availability, leading to significant quantities being discarded. Supermarkets face losses from spoiled produce and items that don't sell. At a national level, the resources invested in producing food that never reaches a consumer represent a massive drain on economic productivity and can even impact food security in developing nations, where the costs are particularly acutely felt.