Authors: Oana-Raluca RUSU, Gheorghiță VLAD
Pages: 10-21
DOI: 10.57263/JMQ/03.02.20242
Published online: 03.09.2024
Abstract: Food waste is a growing global concern with far-reaching implications for food security, public health, and environmental sustainability. It is estimated that nearly one-third of all food produced worldwide is lost or wasted, amounting to approximately 1.3 billion tons annually. This loss not only exacerbates food insecurity but also contributes to significant environmental damage through the emission of greenhouse gases, resource depletion, and the strain on waste management systems. The European Union (EU) has taken active steps to address this issue by setting ambitious goals to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030, in alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Policies such as the EU Waste Framework Directive and the Farm to Fork Strategy are designed to integrate sustainability into the entire food supply chain, from production to consumption. This paper reviews these initiatives, along with the broader implications of food waste reduction on food safety, greenhouse gas emissions, and biodiversity conservation. Furthermore, it explores the role of technological innovation, legislative measures, and consumer education in driving meaningful reductions in food waste across the EU. By adopting a circular economy approach, the EU seeks to create a more resilient and sustainable food system for future generations.
Keywords: Food waste, food security, food safety, sustainability, European Union, circular economy, greenhouse gas emissions
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