Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Naledi Sikhakhane
Published on 2024-04-12 11:18:34
Food waste is a global issue that needs urgent attention. In 2022, a staggering 1.05 billion tonnes of food waste were generated worldwide, equating to 132kg per capita and nearly one-fifth of all food available to consumers. The United Nations Environment Programme’s (Unep) Food Waste Index Report 2024, released in late March, shed light on these alarming statistics. South Africa alone wastes 10 million tonnes of food every year, equivalent to 30 billion meals, as estimated by food reclaimers.
Dr. Suzan Oelofse, a researcher at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, emphasized the importance of reducing food waste to meet the Social Development Goal (SDG) 12.3 target of a 50% reduction by 2030. Oelofse highlighted the need for a collaborative effort from all sectors to achieve this goal and address the issue of hunger. Despite the lack of robust baseline data in many countries, every individual can contribute to reducing food waste within their control.
Household food waste is a major contributor to the overall problem, driven by various factors such as ignorance, misinterpretation of date labels, concerns for family health and safety, over-preparation, and bulk purchases influenced by special offers and attractive displays in stores. Education and awareness play a crucial role in changing behavior and reducing household waste.
The Unep report emphasized that food waste is not limited to rich countries, with developing nations also facing significant challenges in this regard. In South Africa, levels of household food waste differ only slightly across income brackets, highlighting the need for comprehensive strategies to tackle the issue.
Matlou Setati, the executive of the Food Safety and Sustainability Initiative at the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa, echoed Oelofse’s sentiments regarding the importance of consumer education and responsible food handling practices. Setati emphasized the correlation between food waste and hunger, with millions of people facing food insecurity while tons of food are wasted annually.
To address the issue of food waste, Setati recommended practical steps such as planning shopping trips, utilizing leftovers, and maintaining proper food storage practices. Improving stock control, meal planning based on actual consumption, and creatively using leftovers can significantly reduce household waste and contribute to a more sustainable food system.
Inger Andersen, Unep’s executive director, highlighted the environmental and economic impacts of food waste, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing this issue at a global level. She stressed that countries have the potential to reverse food loss and waste, reduce climate impacts, and accelerate progress on global goals by addressing food waste effectively.
In conclusion, addressing food waste requires a multi-faceted approach involving governments, businesses, and individuals. By raising awareness, implementing practical solutions, and working together towards common goals, we can reduce food waste, alleviate hunger, and build a more sustainable future for all.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
