Food Shortage vs. “W.S.H.T.F.” Scenario: Understanding the Current Situation and Preparing for the Unknown
With the global population expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, the question of food security is becoming increasingly important. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the fragility of our food systems, leading many to wonder if we are heading towards a food shortage or a “When Shit Hits The Fan” (W.S.H.T.F.) scenario. This article aims to shed light on the current situation and provide guidance on how to prepare for the unknown.
Understanding the Current Situation
According to the United Nations, nearly 690 million people went hungry in 2019, an increase of 10 million from 2018. The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to push an additional 83-132 million people into hunger. While this paints a grim picture, it’s important to note that the world produces enough food to feed everyone. The problem lies in access and distribution.
What is a W.S.H.T.F. Scenario?
A W.S.H.T.F. scenario refers to a situation where normal societal structures and services collapse, often due to a catastrophic event. In such a scenario, access to food and other necessities becomes extremely difficult. While it’s impossible to predict if or when such a scenario might occur, it’s prudent to be prepared.
Preparing for a Food Shortage
Preparing for a food shortage involves more than just stockpiling food. It’s about developing a sustainable system that can provide for your needs in the long term. Here are some steps you can take:
Grow your own food: Start a vegetable garden and learn how to preserve your harvest.
Learn to forage: Knowing how to identify and harvest wild food can be a valuable skill.
Stockpile wisely: Don’t just hoard food. Think about nutrition, shelf life, and how to store your supplies properly.
Preparing for a W.S.H.T.F. Scenario
Preparing for a W.S.H.T.F. scenario involves a broader range of skills and supplies. Here are some suggestions:
Learn survival skills: This includes first aid, navigation, and self-defense.
Build a community: In a W.S.H.T.F. scenario, having a network of trusted individuals can be crucial.
Plan for different scenarios: Think about what you would need in different situations, such as a natural disaster or a societal collapse, and plan accordingly.
In conclusion, while the current situation is concerning, it’s not a foregone conclusion that we’re heading for a food shortage or a W.S.H.T.F. scenario. However, being prepared can provide peace of mind and potentially make a big difference in a crisis situation.