The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and partners launched the Food Waste Breakthrough at COP30 in Belém to halve global food waste by 2030. This initiative targets reducing methane emissions from food waste by up to 7%, tackling climate change and global hunger simultaneously.
Food waste exceeds one billion tonnes yearly, contributing nearly 10% of greenhouse gas emissions and up to 14% of methane emissions—a gas 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide over 20 years. Financially, food waste causes losses of approximately US$1 trillion annually, highlighting the urgent need for change.
The Food Waste Breakthrough unites governments, cities, civil society, and private partners around three pillars: Capacity Building & Advocacy, Data & Policy, and Finance & Implementation. A US$3 million, four-year UNEP project, funded by the Global Environment Facility, will accelerate prevention and methane mitigation in developing countries.
COMBATING HUNGER
UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen emphasized that reducing food waste is critical to combating hunger. It is also essential for cutting harmful methane emissions from landfills. Dan Ioschpe, COP30 Climate Champion, stressed the risk of methane impacts doubling by 2050 if action stalls.
Supporting behavioral change and early intervention are key strategies. There are also partnerships to fund innovations led by youth. These efforts involve city initiatives in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Champions include Brazil, Japan, the UK, and cities like Amman, Bangkok, and Paris.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why is reducing food waste important for climate?
A1: Food waste accounts for up to 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions and produces methane, a powerful warming gas.
Q2: How does the Food Waste Breakthrough aim to achieve its goals?
A2: By engaging stakeholders globally to halve food waste through policy, finance, and community action with measurable targets by 2030.
Q3: Who is involved in the initiative?
A3: Governments, cities, civil society, private companies, and financial institutions collaborate worldwide under UNEP leadership.
Q4: What funding supports the initiative?
A4: The Global Environment Facility is funding a $3 million global project, alongside other financial commitments to support innovation.
The Food Waste Breakthrough represents a cost-effective, scalable climate action that also addresses global food insecurity, making it a critical step toward sustainable consumption and