Understanding the UNEP Food Waste Index

The UNEP Food Waste Index is an annual global report published by the UN Environment Programme that presents detailed insights into global food waste volumes from both commercial and consumer sources. Its aim is to provide the most accurate global estimate of food waste at retail and consumer levels, offering countries guidance on improving data collection and best practices, in line with the Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 of halving food waste by 2030. As you can imagine, this is critical reading for the Orderly team! So, where do we stand?

‍The hard facts

‍The report is definitely in line with what we see as a business helping fight food waste. The UNEP Food Waste Index has highlighted an ever-pressing need for more effective food waste management strategies, and this year’s report has added even more expanded data points from around the world, providing significantly more robust global and national estimates. It also expands on the SDG 12.3 food waste measurement methodology, offering enhanced guidance on measurement across retail, food service, and household sectors.

The takeaway is that this is not limited to rich countries, and it’s not down to just consumers or retailers. High-income, upper-middle-income, and lower-middle-income countries differ in their average levels of household food waste by just seven kilograms per capita per year. Globally, 19% of food available to consumers was lost overall at retail, food service, and household levels, in addition to around 13% of food lost in the supply chain from post-harvest to the point of sale. (UN Food and Agriculture Organization).

The report indicates that current efforts are insufficient, with food waste volumes still rising despite numerous initiatives. This situation is alarming given that over 730 million people worldwide suffer from hunger while vast quantities of food are wasted daily.

‍It’s a steep climb ahead

‍Global food waste is now responsible for 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Methane, a byproduct of food decomposition, is particularly harmful, 21 times more damaging than CO2. Despite global commitments to halve food waste by 2030, progress remains slow, with only a few countries on track. Households across all continents wasted over 1 billion meals a day in 2022, while 783 million people were affected by hunger, and a third of humanity faced food insecurity.

The recommendations are vast but affect us all as consumers and producers. Substantial resources are required for the production and disposal of wasted food. We need efficient collection and transport of food waste (although separate food waste collections, as mandated in new UK legislation, are recognised as a positive). Recycling food waste is also a recommendation.

‍Do your part with Orderly

‍Addressing food waste requires comprehensive and collaborative efforts. The UNEP Food Waste Index is a valuable resource that highlights the scale of the challenge and the need for innovative solutions. It shouts louder for those at the back that by improving food waste management practices and taking food waste seriously, we can drive global progress towards a more sustainable future.

The UK is already the first country to reduce its food waste by 25%, beating its target of 20% by 2025. This equates to half of their SDG 12.3 target of 50% food waste reduction by 2030. But to put the world right, it is going to take everyone doing their part, from large conglomerates to smaller chains. Managing food waste can be challenging for organisations without extensive resources, but a system like Orderly’s food and beverage (F&B) management software reasonably puts compliance within everyone’s grasp.

Our software can support you in identifying and decreasing food waste, for improved profits and outcomes. Contact Orderly to learn how your food and beverage chain can accurately report on food loss and waste.