Social media featured photos that caused quite a few excitement among net users. Unsold doughnuts, which were found in the back area in Warsaw, are just an example of a bigger problem, the waste of food. In this article, we will examine the scale of this problem, its causes and its effects, and discuss what can be done to reduce it.
Photos of cartons with discarded doughnuts appeared on Monday on Warsaw's freegan groups. Freegans are people who usage discarded but inactive nutritious food. The find originates from the Warsaw Bemow, from the vicinity of the intersection of the streets of Piast Śląski and Insurgent Śląski. They show piles of candy cartons that were most likely not sold on a fat Thursday. This is just 1 of many examples of food waste that occurs in Poland and in the world.
According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), all year 1 3rd of the food produced is wasted. This means that about 1.3 billion tons of food is discarded each year. Food waste not only causes economical losses, but contributes to climate change, contamination and leakage of the supply chain.
In Poland it is estimated that about 10% of food is wasted. This means that about 2.5 million tons of food is discarded each year. The waste of food in Poland is mostly due to overproduction and inadequate retention of food.
Food waste besides has a negative impact on the environment and economy. The production, transport and retention of food requires large amounts of energy, water and natural resources. Disposal of food means that these resources are wasted. In addition, food waste contributes to greenhouse gas emissions that origin climate change.
In order to reduce food waste, action is needed by the government, the food manufacture and consumers. The government can introduce policies and programmes that will encourage the simplification and re-use of food. Food manufacture can introduce fresh technologies and solutions to reduce waste. Consumers can make informed choices and change their behaviour to reduce waste.
One solution is the distribution of food, which involves the reception and redistribution of food, which would otherwise be discarded. There are already organisations in Poland that deal with food distribution, specified as Food Banks. These organisations take food from businesses and shops and distribute it to those in need.
Another solution is education and awareness. Education about food waste and its effects can aid consumers realize the importance of reducing waste. Social campaigns and initiatives can aid rise public awareness and engagement in reducing waste.
Finally, fresh technologies and solutions can aid reduce waste. Technologies specified as artificial intelligence and the net of Things can aid optimize supply chains and food storage. Solutions specified as packaging that prolong food life can besides aid reduce waste.
Conclusion
Food waste is simply a serious problem that requires decisive action. Government, food manufacture and consumers must cooperate to reduce waste and improve food security. Education, awareness and fresh technologies can aid reduce waste and make a more sustainable food system.
