Fit for 55: A Greener Future for Healthier Generations

Introduction:
The Fit for 55 plan is an ambitious European project aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable development. The main objectives of this plan include promoting organic food, reducing the use of fertilizers and pesticides, decreasing air travel, and phasing out combustion engine vehicles. This paper will discuss the health benefits for children and the elderly resulting from these actions, as well as their impact on improving the state of the environment.

Promoting organic food
Introducing organic food to the diets of children and the elderly contributes to improving their health by limiting the consumption of harmful substances, such as pesticides and fertilizers. In addition, organic food often contains higher levels of nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which translates into better health and overall body function.

Reducing the use of fertilizers and pesticides
Reducing the use of fertilizers and pesticides contributes to a decrease in environmental pollution, which negatively affects human health. Long-term exposure to these substances can lead to various health problems, such as hormonal disorders, nervous system diseases, and even the development of cancer.

Soil protection
Soil is a valuable resource that is degraded as a result of intensive agriculture and the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Soil protection within the Fit for 55 plan will preserve it as a source of healthy food and ensure biodiversity, which contributes to the proper functioning of ecosystems.

Reducing air travel
Decreasing air travel contributes to reducing air pollution emissions, such as fuel particles and exhaust fumes. Air purification has a beneficial impact on the health of children and the elderly, especially in cases of respiratory, cardiovascular, and nervous system diseases.

Phasing out combustion engine vehicles
Replacing combustion engine vehicles with electric vehicles and raising the acquisition costs of combustion engine vehicles will contribute to a significant reduction in air pollution from exhaust fumes and tire particles. Improved air quality will impact the health of children and the elderly, reducing the risk of allergies, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and nervous system disorders.

Health effects on society
Long-term exposure to environmental pollution associated with pesticides, fertilizers, exhaust fumes, and other harmful factors leads to an increase in cancer and other serious diseases. Implementing the Fit for 55 plan can result in improved public health, reduced burden on the healthcare system, and increased average life expectancy.

Conclusion:

Implementing the Fit for 55 plan has numerous health benefits for children and the elderly, contributing to improved quality of life and public health. Promoting organic food, reducing the use of fertilizers and pesticides, protecting soil, reducing air travel, and phasing out combustion engine vehicles will contribute to decreased environmental pollution, resulting in health benefits for current and future generations.

I would like to draw attention to the fact that many people are unaware of the dangers lurking for us and our children from modern Western civilization. Our actions, consumer lifestyles, and the dominance of large corporations contribute to the decline in quality of life and health for current and future generations. As a result, there is a risk that our children will live shorter lives than we, their parents.

The Council of Europe has undertaken the task of countering these negative trends, aiming to restore health to people and their children. We are aware that the average consumer has little chance of competing against powerful corporations, which often seek to maximize profits at the expense of citizens’ health.

I would like to remind you that a person does not need another car or unhealthy, addictive food for happiness and a healthy life. Happiness does not depend on wealth but on the quality of life, which is attainable through caring for one’s health, the environment, and relationships with others.

Projects like the Fit for 55 plan aim to promote a healthier, more balanced lifestyle and environmental awareness, ultimately improving the health and quality of life of our citizens. Together, we can change our reality, rejecting the culture of consumerism and caring for our health and the well-being of our children. Such initiatives will contribute to creating a more sustainable and healthier future for all, ensuring that we leave a better world for generations to come.