Food waste is fuelling climate change

In 2022, the world wasted 1.05 billion tonnes of food. That's nearly one in five meals lost in shops, restaurants, and homes. This food waste contributes to up to 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, including methane, one of the most powerful climate pollutants. The Food Waste Breakthrough, led by UNEP and the UN Climate High-Level Champions, unites governments, cities, businesses, and communities to cut food waste in half by 2030 and contributing to an up to 7% reduction in methane emissions – supporting the achievement of SDG 12.3 and the Global Methane Pledge. Reducing food waste protects the climate, saves households money, supports farmers, and helps reduce food insecurity. The solutions exist. Now is the time to scale them. Food is never waste. Let’s make every meal count.