Food waste is a major issue globally, with approximately 13.2 percent of food produced being lost between harvest and retail. In order to address this problem in Qatar, the Ministry of Municipality is working with Qatar University to conduct a survey to measure the amount of food waste and agricultural loss in the country. This study will take 18 months and will provide recommendations on how to reduce food waste and loss significantly. The ultimate goal is to reduce food waste by 50 percent and food loss by 30 percent by 2030.
The National Food Security Strategy 2030 is aimed at cutting food waste and loss by implementing nationwide programs that focus on circular economy principles. By signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Qatar University, the Ministry of Municipality is showing its commitment to enhancing food security and ensuring the achievement of the strategy’s objectives. This strategy is crucial in ensuring sustainable food security and maintaining food supplies amid global challenges.
Food waste and food loss are two major issues that need to be addressed. Food waste refers to discarded or wasted food at the retail and consumer levels, while food loss refers to edible food that is lost along the journey from production to post-harvest processes. These losses have a significant impact on food security, as millions of people suffer from hunger and malnutrition despite there being enough food produced to feed everyone. Food loss and waste also contribute to economic losses and have environmental impacts.
The International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste highlights the need for financing to reduce food loss and waste and achieve climate goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It is important to address this issue in order to improve food security, reduce economic losses, and mitigate the impact of food waste on the environment. By implementing measures to reduce food waste and loss, countries can work towards achieving sustainable food security and ensuring a stable food supply for their populations.
Efforts to reduce food waste and loss are essential in a world where food insecurity is on the rise. By working towards implementing measures to reduce food waste and loss, countries can ensure a more sustainable food system and contribute to achieving global goals related to food security and environmental sustainability. The survey being conducted by the Ministry of Municipality and Qatar University will provide valuable insights into the extent of food waste and agricultural loss in Qatar, and help in formulating strategies to address this pressing issue.
