Food Waste Problem

Secondary & High SchoolAdvancedDiscursive Writing

Task: Write a discursive essay exploring the global issue of food waste.

In your writing, address the following key areas:

  • The Causes: Why does food waste happen at different stages of the food journey?
  • The Solutions: What actions can individuals, supermarkets, and governments take to reduce waste?
  • The Impact: Why is tackling this issue crucial for both the environment and society?

Ensure your discussion presents balanced arguments, clear explanations, and thoughtful suggestions for change.

💡 Writing Tips

  • •

    Start with a clear introduction explaining what food waste is.

  • •

    Think about why food gets wasted at home, in shops, and on farms.

  • •

    Brainstorm ideas for how you, shops, and the government can help.

  • •

    Remember to mention why it's important to stop food waste (e.g., helping the planet, making sure everyone has enough food).

  • •

    Use paragraphs to organise your ideas – one for causes, then one for each type of solution.

📝 Sample Answer

Food waste is a huge problem where lots of perfectly good food gets thrown away. This happens all around the world, and it's a real shame because it harms our planet and means some people don't get enough to eat.

One big reason food gets wasted is when people buy too much and it goes bad before they can eat it. Sometimes, shops throw away food that looks a bit funny, even if it's still good to eat. Farms might even waste food if it's not the perfect size or shape that shops want.

Luckily, everyone can help reduce food waste. At home, we can plan our meals, only buy what we need, and use up leftovers. Supermarkets could sell 'ugly' fruit and vegetables, or give leftover food to charities instead of throwing it away. Governments could make rules that encourage shops and restaurants to waste less, and teach everyone why it's so important not to waste food. If we all work together, we can make a big difference for our planet and make sure more food goes to people who need it.

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Food Waste Problem | Discursive Writing Prompt | atoply