Welcome back to our series on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). If you've been following along, you know that the SDGs are a set of 17 global goals striving to craft a better world for everyone. Today, we're exploring SDG 2: Zero Hunger.

Hey, Changemakers! As we continue our deep dive into the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we’re focusing on SDG 2, 'Zero Hunger' in honor of World Food Day. In a world where food surplus exists in many corners, a staggering number still confront the heartbreak of hunger daily. This underscores the urgency and importance of our shared purpose.

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Understanding Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger

SDG 2 aims to “end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture,”  At its core, the goal targets the heart-wrenching reality that millions of people go to bed hungry each night, many of them children. But what does hunger really look like in numbers?

• Over 690 million people are hungry, representing 8.9% of the world population.
• Around 45% of deaths among children under the age of 5 years are linked to undernutrition.
• In 2022, nearly 258 million people across 58 countries faced crisis or higher levels of food insecurity,

A population struggling with hunger is less productive, more prone to disease, and unable to contribute fully to their communities. Moreover, food scarcity can lead to societal tensions, migrations, and even conflicts.

On a personal level, the realization that millions starve in a world where we produce enough food is morally unsettling. Food waste in higher-income countries often contrasts with the scarcity in underdeveloped nations. This imbalance affects global stability, which in turn can influence trade, economies, and international relations.

Hunger: Closer to Home Than You Think

Hunger isn't just a far-away problem. It's a global challenge that affects economies, societies, and individuals at every level, in every country, including the US. 34 million people in the US – including 9 million children and spanning every single country in the country – are food insecure. Both at home and abroad, hunger is a serious issue. 

How You Can Help Combat Hunger

You might think, "I'm just one person – how can I combat such an immense issue?" But individual actions add up, and together we can create ripples of positive change. Here are some ways you can help work towards a world with zero hunger:

• Reduce Food Waste: Start in your own home. Buy only what you need, consume leftovers, and learn how to store foods properly to increase their shelf life.
• Support Local Farmers: Choose to buy locally-produced foods. This reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods and supports sustainable agricultural practices.
• Educate & Advocate: Spread awareness about the hunger issue. The more people know, the more likely they are to help.
• Volunteer or Donate: Support food banks, shelters, and local NGOs working towards providing meals to the less fortunate.

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Combat Hunger with the Karma HopeGiver Card

The Karma HopeGiver Card goes beyond ordinary spending. It's a powerful tool in the fight against hunger and the pursuit of SDG 2: Zero Hunger. With this unique card, your regular purchases earn cashback, which are then donated to charities focused on eliminating hunger and promoting sustainable agriculture, as well as alleviating poverty and homelessness. This way, the Karma HopeGiver Card turns every transaction into a meaningful contribution towards a world where no one goes hungry.

Here are some impactful organizations you can support through Karma to take a stand against hunger:

• Feeding America 
• Meals on Wheels 
• Action Against Hunger

Charting the Path to Universal Food Security

Zero Hunger, as an SDG, is more than just an aspirational target. It's a call to action, urging us all to play our part in creating a world where every individual has access to nutritious and sufficient food all year round. While governments, NGOs, and institutions play significant roles, individuals too can and should make their mark. And with tools like Karma Card, your mark can be both meaningful and effortless.

Keep following our SDG series as we delve deeper into these global goals and uncover more ways you can make a difference. Remember, change starts with a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens.

Not part of the Karma fam yet? Join today to start making a difference with every purchase. 

Interested in learning more about the SDGs? Check out the UN Sustainable Development website.

Karma Card is issued by Patriot Bank, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Mastercard International Incorporated.  The card may be used everywhere Debit Mastercard is accepted.

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