The Hunger Games: SDGs VS Ozempic

In this student takeover episode of the Meliora podcast, we explore the sustainability issues surrounding the rising trend in weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro, to assess the extent to which they align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.Framed through SDG 3 (Good health and wellbeing), SDG 5 (Gender equality), and SDG 12 (Responsible consumption and production), we discuss the disparities between medical benefit, social pressure, and environmental cost. From the growing use of single-use injection pens and emerging concerns about drugs entering water systems, to gendered expectations around body image.With research in this area still developing, we ask: are these drugs a breakthrough for solving the obesity crisis, or a new sustainability challenge we’re not prepared for? Episode Host – Maya WhyteEpisode Guests – Bethany Mackay, Coumba Sarr, Marie CampionEpisode Editor – Ellie HowellThis episode is part of the Student Takeover Season on the Meliora Podcast and is a group project from the University of Southampton UOSM2043 Global Sustainability Challenges module.