FAO and Partners Launch New Campaign to Raise Awareness of Food Waste

Rome, Italy – [Date] – The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and its partners today launched a new campaign to raise awareness of the staggering amount of food waste and its devastating impact on our planet. Titled “Food Waste: Less Food, More Action”, the campaign calls for action from individuals, businesses, and governments to reduce food waste throughout the supply chain and beyond.

Food waste is a global problem, with approximately one-third of all food produced being wasted annually. This translates to 1.3 billion tonnes of wasted food, generating greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to burning 3 billion tonnes of coal. The campaign highlights the urgency of addressing this issue, emphasizing the positive impact reducing food waste can have on climate change, food security, and resource conservation.

“Food waste is not just a matter of throwing away food. It is a symptom of inefficient agricultural, supply chain, and consumer practices,” said FAO Director-General QU Dongyu. “We need to empower people with knowledge, tools, and infrastructure to reduce food waste throughout the entire food system.”

Key aspects of the campaign:

  • Raising public awareness: Engaging social media, digital campaigns, and media outreach will draw attention to the problem and its consequences.
  • Empowering communities: Local workshops and training programs will teach farmers, retailers, and consumers methods to reduce food waste.
  • Promoting technological solutions: Sharing innovations like smart agriculture practices, digital tracking tools, and waste reduction technologies.
  • Strengthening supply chains: Supporting initiatives that ensure better food storage and distribution, reducing losses throughout the supply chain.

The campaign is a collaborative effort involving FAO, governments, private sector partners, civil society organizations, and individuals. Initial partners include the Consumer Goods Forum, The Packaging Coalition, the World Resources Institute, and several global food companies.

Why Should We Care About Food Waste?

Reducing food waste is crucial for several reasons:

  • Climate change: Food waste generates greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Food security: Wasted food is a loss of valuable nutrients that could feed vulnerable populations.
  • Economic impact: Food waste represents a significant financial loss for farmers and businesses.
  • Resource conservation: Growing food requires immense resources, including water and energy.

FAQs

1. What is the campaign’s target audience?

The campaign targets individuals, businesses, and governments across all sectors of the food system.

2. What are some practical ways to reduce food waste?

Some practical steps include using technology for inventory management, storing food properly, composting food scraps, and planning meals ahead.

3. What is the FAO doing to address food waste?

The FAO is working to strengthen food systems, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and raise awareness of food waste through various initiatives.

4. How can I get involved in the campaign?

There are many ways to get involved, such as joining online discussions, participating in local workshops, and supporting organizations that advocate for food waste reduction.

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