A new report by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) paints a disturbing picture: while millions grapple with hunger, over 1 billion tonnes of food were squandered globally in 2022.

This unconscionable waste isn't just a moral failing, it's a major contributor to climate change, nature loss, and pollution.

The UNEP Food Waste Index Report 2024 shines a spotlight on the shocking scale of the issue. Households are revealed to be the primary offenders, discarding a staggering 60% of food. Food service providers and retailers follow closely behind, responsible for 28% and 12% of food waste respectively.

"This is a global tragedy," declared Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP. "Millions will go hungry today as perfectly edible food is thrown away across the world."

The report debunks the myth that food waste is solely a "rich country" problem. It reveals surprisingly similar levels of waste across income brackets. However, the report identifies a concerning trend in hotter countries, where higher consumption of fresh produce and lack of robust cold chains contribute to increased food spoilage.

The environmental impact of food waste is equally alarming.  According to the report, food loss and waste generate a staggering 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions – nearly five times the aviation sector's footprint.  This wasted food also devours a significant portion of our planet's resources, occupying an estimated third of the world's agricultural land. The economic toll is no less concerning, with estimates suggesting food waste costs us a staggering $1 trillion annually.

The UNEP report emphasizes the urgent need for action on both individual and systemic levels.  Strengthening data collection efforts is crucial to accurately track progress and identify areas for improvement. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are highlighted as a powerful tool to tackle food waste across the entire supply chain. These collaborations bring together governments, businesses, and NGOs to identify bottlenecks, co-develop solutions, and drive meaningful change.

Countries like Japan and the UK have demonstrated the effectiveness of these partnerships. By implementing strong policies and fostering collaboration, they've achieved significant reductions in food waste – 31% and 18% respectively. The report urges other countries to follow suit and prioritize food waste reduction as a critical step towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 12.3: halving food waste by 2030.

With millions facing hunger and our planet under increasing strain, the UN report serves as a stark wake-up call. It's time to tackle food waste with the seriousness it deserves. Through individual action, better data collection, and robust partnerships, we can create a world where food nourishes people, not landfills. (ILKHA)