How sustainable are tomatoes? | DW Documentary

Summary

This documentary delves into the hidden truths behind the tomato industry, from the environmental damage caused by plastic waste in southern Europe to the exploitation of migrant labor in Spain’s greenhouses. It explores the harsh realities faced by workers, the environmental toll of unsustainable farming practices, and the impact of cheap, imported tomatoes. While some farms adopt more sustainable methods, the video highlights the widespread problems of pollution, illegal waste dumping, and the socio-economic struggles tied to tomato production. The search for a truly sustainable tomato continues, offering a stark look at the cost of convenience in the modern food industry.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sustainable tomatoes require careful cultivation, but the industry often faces environmental challenges.
• 🍅 Tomatoes are rich in nutrients like Vitamin C, potassium, and carotenoids, which can benefit health, including cardiovascular protection.
• 🌍 The production of tomatoes in southern Europe, particularly in Spain, relies heavily on plastic, which has significant environmental costs.
• 🏞️ The vast plastic greenhouses in Almería, Spain, contribute to environmental degradation, with illegal garbage dumps and microplastic pollution.
• 🌱 Some farms in southern Europe use integrated farming systems, including bumblebees for pollination and beneficial insects for pest control, reducing synthetic pesticide use.
• 💰 Cheaper tomatoes from southern Europe come with hidden costs, including environmental harm and problematic working conditions for laborers.
• 🚨 Migrant workers in southern Spain often work under harsh conditions, with many living in makeshift homes and lacking legal contracts or rights.
• 🇮🇹 While Italy is known for its tomato production, the country imports processed tomatoes from China due to a decline in domestic farming capacity.
• 🔍 Consumers must carefully read labels on canned tomatoes, as 'Made in Italy' refers to processing, not origin, which could include tomatoes from China.
• 🌿 Tomatoes grown in the Netherlands have a large carbon footprint due to the energy-intensive nature of greenhouse farming, especially in winter months.
• 🌍 Geothermal energy is a promising solution for more sustainable tomato cultivation, reducing reliance on fossil fuels for greenhouse heating.

Q & A

What are some key nutrients found in tomatoes, and what benefits do they offer?

Tomatoes are rich in Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. They also contain carotenoids, which may help protect against cardiovascular diseases and strengthen the immune system.

Why is the use of plastic in Almería's tomato cultivation controversial?

Almería's tomato cultivation relies heavily on plastic for greenhouses, leading to widespread plastic waste. This not only creates environmental pollution but also contributes to the illegal dumping of plastic, which further harms the environment.

How does the use of plastic sheets affect the environment in Almería?

The plastic sheets used in Almería's greenhouses degrade over time due to exposure to sunlight, breaking down into microplastics that contaminate the soil. These sheets are often not recyclable due to pesticide contamination, leading to long-lasting environmental damage.

What sustainable practices are being used in some tomato farms in southern Europe?

Some farms in southern Europe, like the one visited by Judith, use sustainable practices such as integrated farming systems, bumblebees for pollination, and beneficial insects to control pests. There is also a growing trend to avoid synthetic pesticides.

What is the impact of cheap tomatoes on workers and the environment in Almería?

Cheap tomatoes in Almería often come at the cost of workers' rights and the environment. Laborers, mainly from North Africa, work under harsh conditions without contracts, while the environment suffers from the accumulation of plastic waste and pesticide contamination.

What are the living conditions like for tomato workers in Almería?

Tomato workers in Almería often live in makeshift settlements with no access to basic amenities like electricity or running water. Many workers live in cramped, unsafe conditions, and the authorities often do not address these living standards.

Why are tomatoes from southern Europe cheaper than those grown in Germany?

Tomatoes from southern Europe, like those from Almería, are cheaper due to lower labor and production costs. However, this comes with environmental and social consequences, including poor working conditions and high plastic waste.

What issues are associated with canned tomatoes and their production?

Canned tomatoes are often produced in countries like China, where environmental standards and working conditions may be poor. The European Union imports processed tomatoes from China, which may involve longer transportation routes, higher pesticide use, and questionable labor practices.

How can consumers ensure they are buying tomatoes produced sustainably?

Consumers can check labels to ensure they are purchasing tomatoes grown under sustainable conditions. Tomatoes labeled as 'Made in Italy' or 'Produced in Italy' must meet EU regulations, while labels stating 'non-EU' might indicate lower standards and longer transportation distances.

What alternative energy sources are being used for tomato cultivation in Germany?

In southern Germany, some tomato farms use geothermal energy to heat their greenhouses, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This method aims to provide a more sustainable way of producing tomatoes, although it is not feasible everywhere due to location-specific requirements.