Before the Christmas holidays, the WWF warns about food waste and its consequences. “During Advent and Christmas, but also around the New Year, we place a particularly heavy burden on the environment and the climate. Careful handling of valuable food can make an important contribution to sustainable holidays,” said Dominik Heizmann, WWF expert for sustainable food, in a publication published on Monday.
Difficult planning of needs, poor storage and low utilization of leftovers means that a particularly large amount of food ends up in the trash at this time of year – with consequences for the environment and society. According to this study, 40 percent of all food produced worldwide is never eaten, resulting in ten percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. “If food waste were a country, it would be the third largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions worldwide after China and the US,” the WWF said.
WWF is calling for food donations to those in need
In addition to binding targets and measures to prevent food waste throughout the food chain, WWF Austria recommends subsidized food donations to people in need: “The federal government must remove legal obstacles and promote food distribution through tax incentives,” WWF’s Heizmann demanded Austria.
https://www.krone.at/2046505
Per capita, 100 kilos of food ends up in the trash every year
In particular, the issue of liability should be clarified and social organizations supported in the distribution of surplus food. Improved data and educational work against waste are also necessary. In Austria alone, around one million tonnes of food waste is generated every year – that’s more than 100 kilograms per capita. Both the EU and Austria have set themselves the target of at least halving food waste at trade and consumption levels by 2030 and reducing it across the entire supply chain, the NGO reminded.
For a climate-friendly party without waste, the WWF recommends avoiding panic buying despite the holidays and keeping a good overview of your own supplies. When consuming meat or fish, in addition to the correct amount, the origin and quality of the product must also be taken into account. And if there’s anything left from the festive meal, WWF Austria recommends using the leftovers creatively instead of throwing them away.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
