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NAIROBI, Kenya: A new report by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) sheds light on a critical and often overlooked global challenge: food waste. The “UNEP Food Waste Index Report 2024” reveals that an estimated 1.05 billion tonnes of food are wasted globally each year, a staggering figure that translates to over 1 billion meals discarded daily.

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This alarming level of waste coincides with significant food insecurity. The report highlights that 783 million people globally suffer from hunger, and a third of the global population faces food insecurity. This stark contrast underscores the urgent need for coordinated action to address food waste across the entire supply chain.

Breakdown of Food Waste:

• Household Waste Dominates: The report identifies households as the primary source of food waste, accounting for a concerning 60% of the total. This emphasizes the importance of individual responsibility and consumer behavior modification in tackling the issue.
• Food Services and Retail Contribute: Food service establishments and retailers account for 28% and 12% of food waste, respectively. Optimizing storage practices and streamlining supply chains within these sectors offers significant potential for reduction.
• Environmental and Economic Toll: Beyond the ethical implications, food waste has a substantial environmental and economic impact. It is estimated to contribute 8-10% of annual global greenhouse gas emissions, significantly impacting climate change. Additionally, the economic cost of food waste is estimated at roughly USD 1 trillion.

Moving Towards Solutions:

The report underscores the need for a multi-pronged approach to tackle food waste. Key recommendations include:

• Strengthened Data Collection: Many low- and middle-income countries lack robust systems for measuring food waste. Establishing clear baselines and consistent monitoring are crucial for tracking progress.
• Individual Action: Simple changes in household habits, like meal planning and proper food storage, can significantly reduce food waste at the consumer level. Public awareness campaigns are essential for promoting these practices.
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Collaboration between governments, businesses, and NGOs holds immense potential. Also, the report highlights successful PPP initiatives in countries like the UK, where household food waste was reduced by 25%.
• National Climate Plans: Integrating food waste reduction strategies into national climate plans (NDCs) is crucial for raising climate ambition and achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.3: halving food waste by 2030.

The “UNEP Food Waste Index Report 2024” serves as a stark wake-up call. By addressing food waste through a combination of individual responsibility, improved infrastructure, and collaborative action, we can create a more secure and sustainable food system for all.