Today, on the International Day of Food Reduction and Waste, we at ToNoWaste are reaffirming our commitment to transforming Europe’s food systems. With 88 million tonnes of food wasted annually in the EU, the ToNoWaste project is addressing this global challenge by promoting sustainable practices across the entire food supply chain. Through our research and pilot initiatives in Valencia, Vienna, and Graz, we aim to equip farmers, supply chain companies, consumers, and policymakers with science-based tools to reduce food waste effectively.
Globally, food waste remains a critical issue. According to the latest Food Waste Index Report, the world wasted 1.05 billion tonnes of food in 2022, with households contributing 60% of this total. The environmental impact is staggering, as food loss and waste are responsible for 8–10% of global greenhouse gas emissions—nearly five times the total emissions of the aviation sector. Reducing food waste, therefore, is not only a moral imperative but also a climate action necessity.
Countries like the UK and Japan have shown that large-scale change is possible, achieving food waste reductions of 18% and 31%, respectively. Governments, businesses, and consumers must join forces to replicate such successes globally. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are increasingly being embraced to reduce food waste and mitigate its impact on climate and water stress. These partnerships focus on a “Target-Measure-Act” approach, bringing together multiple stakeholders to drive innovation for long-term, systemic change.
At ToNoWaste, we are creating an ecosystem of innovation to foster better decisions in food production and consumption by understanding the root causes of waste and designing holistic solutions. By co-creating frameworks for food waste prevention and reduction (FWPR) with our stakeholders, we contribute to a healthier, more resilient, and inclusive food system that benefits both people and the planet.
As we observe this important day, we emphasize the need for continuous collaboration, sharing open-access knowledge, and inspiring a shift in mindset toward zero food waste. Together, we can build a sustainable future where food is respected and conserved at every stage of its journey.
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