New climate records
Whether in terms of greenhouse gas concentrations, temperatures across the globe, ocean heat and global sea level, total land area in extreme drought or the melting of Antarctica sea ice– the highest values since records began were measured in 2023. The latest international annual report on the state of the climate, published by the National Center for Environmental Information of the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, documents the rapid warming of the Earth and its consequences. In 2023, El Niño acted as an additional booster. Researchers from the University of Graz also contributed to the report.
Eating well: an inclusive look at sustainability and nutrition
How do I eat sustainably? By buying local, seasonal food, preferably organic, and by eating less meat. This answer emerges from my situated knowledge, and it might work for me. Because it facilitates me to eat dishes that I like, and that I am familiar with. And because, due to my socio-economic privilege, I don't necessarily have to buy the cheapest products. But what do “our” ideas of sustainable eating mean for people with less financial resources? Or for people who have grown up with different food cultures and traditions? Are definitions of sustainability too narrow and exclusive? An innovative course at the University of Graz engages intercultural learning on critical approaches to sustainable eating in theory and practice. The project is funded by the Green Academia Award.