International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste

The International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste highlights the scale of food lost or discarded and encourages action to prevent it. Food loss occurs earlier in the supply chain, including on farms, in storage, during transportation, and in processing. Food waste occurs farther downstream, particularly in shops, food service, and homes. The distinction and causes are outlined by the United Nations.

The day also draws attention to the resources behind uneaten food. When food is lost or wasted, the water, land, energy, labor, and capital used to produce it are wasted as well. Food waste sent to landfills contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, while reducing loss and waste can support food security, nutrition, and more sustainable food systems.

On December 19, 2019, the United Nations General Assembly designated September 29 as the observance through Resolution 74/209. The first observance took place on September 29, 2020. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) co-convene the day, which promotes awareness, possible solutions, and collective action toward Sustainable Development Goal Target 12.3: halving per-capita food waste at the retail and consumer levels and reducing food losses along production and supply chains by 2030.

How to Observe International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste

Celebrate by planning meals and shopping carefully so you buy only what you need. Store food wisely, use leftovers, and learn about food preservation. Share information about food loss and waste with family, friends, or coworkers, and consult the FAO’s International Day resources for ways to get involved. Consider donating suitable surplus food, and compost remaining scraps or ask whether local food-waste collection is available.

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