US Food Loss and Waste Strategy – AG INFORMATION NETWORK OF THE WEST

2024-07-16
US Food Loss and Waste Strategy – AG INFORMATION NETWORK OF THE WEST

Transforming Food Waste into Sustainable Solutions: A Comprehensive National Strategy

The White House, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Food and Drug Administration have collaborated to develop a groundbreaking national strategy aimed at preventing food loss and waste, as well as increasing the recycling of organic waste. This initiative, supported by the USDA Food Loss and Waste Liaison, Jean Buzby, seeks to implement policies that encourage these crucial practices.

Unlocking the Potential of Food Waste Reduction

Addressing the Staggering Scale of Food Waste

One of the most alarming facts about food waste is that a staggering one-third of all food produced for human consumption never gets eaten. This colossal loss of resources not only represents a significant economic and environmental burden but also highlights the urgent need for comprehensive solutions. Food waste has become the single most common material found in landfills, and alarmingly, 61% of the methane generated by decomposing landfill food waste is not captured by landfill gas collection systems, ultimately being released into the atmosphere.

Optimizing Harvests and Distributing Excess Food

The new national strategy aims to address this crisis by focusing on optimizing harvests and ensuring that excess food is distributed to those in need. By implementing policies that encourage these practices, the strategy seeks to minimize the amount of edible food that ends up in landfills or is otherwise wasted. This approach not only reduces the environmental impact of food waste but also helps to alleviate food insecurity and support vulnerable communities.

Educating the Next Generation

Another key component of the strategy is the emphasis on educating children about the importance of reducing food waste. By instilling these values in the younger generation, the strategy aims to create a lasting cultural shift that will continue to drive progress in this critical area. Through targeted educational programs and initiatives, the strategy aims to empower the next generation to be champions of sustainable food practices.

Transforming Organic Waste into New Products

In addition to preventing food loss and waste, the strategy also focuses on increasing the recycling of organic waste. By converting this waste into new products like compost and bone meal, the strategy seeks to create a circular economy that maximizes the value of these resources. This approach not only reduces the amount of organic waste sent to landfills but also provides valuable inputs for various industries, further enhancing the sustainability of the food system.

Providing Expertise and Technical Assistance

To ensure the successful implementation of the strategy, the USDA will play a crucial role in providing expertise and technical assistance to various government entities. This support will help these entities develop and implement effective policies and programs that align with the strategy's goals. By leveraging the USDA's knowledge and resources, the strategy aims to empower stakeholders at all levels to take meaningful action in reducing food loss and waste.

Driving Progress Towards 2030

The strategy is expected to go into effect by 2030, marking a significant milestone in the nation's efforts to address the food waste crisis. With a comprehensive approach that spans prevention, distribution, education, recycling, and technical support, the strategy sets the stage for transformative change in the way we manage food resources. As the implementation of this strategy unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor its progress and continue to refine and adapt the approach to ensure its long-term success.

Article "tagged" as:

Related Article

6 Sustainable and Healthy Fish to Eat (And 4 Types to Avoid)

6 Sustainable and Healthy Fish to Eat (And 4 Types to Avoid)

Here's the scoop on the best sustainable and healthy fish to eat regularly according to experts and a few fish types they recommend you avoid.
16 Pumpkin Pie Recipes to Make for Thanksgiving

16 Pumpkin Pie Recipes to Make for Thanksgiving

From traditional pumpkin pie recipes to elegant and creative variations (such as pumpkin pie pudding, cheesecake, and cupcakes), these scrumptious pumpkin pies will make your Thanksgiving holiday dessert a smashing success.
14 Easy Slow Cooker Appetizers that Make Entertaining Low Stress

14 Easy Slow Cooker Appetizers that Make Entertaining Low Stress

These holiday slow cooker appetizers will hit the spot for every guest. Our recipes include sliders, dips, fondue, and more!
Godzilla Roll Sushi Bake

Godzilla Roll Sushi Bake

This sushi bake recipe makes your favorite sushi roll a breeze to make. Get the delicious taste with half the work by following our Godzilla Roll Sushi Bake recipe.
Indian Masala Chili

Indian Masala Chili

Indian Masala Chili
How to Make a Smoothie from Your Favorite Fresh Ingredients

How to Make a Smoothie from Your Favorite Fresh Ingredients

Learn how to make a smoothie with your favorite fruits, veggies, and dairy or non-dairy products. Skip the pricey juice bar or bottled options.
Make-Ahead Mini Cheese Balls

Make-Ahead Mini Cheese Balls

Once you learn how to make cheese balls that you can customize—and then freeze for up to three months—you'll never host a party without them! Depending on which cheese ball seasoning you choose, this make-ahead cheese ball recipe can fit any season or color palette.
Eggplant "Meat" Balls with Chimichurri

Eggplant "Meat" Balls with Chimichurri

Enjoy these plant-based meatballs for your next meatless dinner.
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Grinders

Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Grinders

Make hot Italian sausage subs for a crowd with this easy slow cooker sandwich recipe. This easy Italian sandwich recipe makes enough meat for 12 subs, so it's great for a party or potluck.
Low-Sugar Chocolate Chip Zucchini Muffins

Low-Sugar Chocolate Chip Zucchini Muffins

Enjoy these moist healthy muffins for breakfast or with your afternoon tea.
How an Orchestra Orchestrates a Live Journey Through a Video Game

How an Orchestra Orchestrates a Live Journey Through a Video Game

A controller will direct a conductor's baton during Journey's live performances at the Brooklyn Acad
Fashion and Beauty: 3 Hottest summer nail colours

Fashion and Beauty: 3 Hottest summer nail colours

This article discusses the latest nail color trends for the summer season. It highlights three popul
Marni SS25 Collection: A Story of Fashion and Beauty

Marni SS25 Collection: A Story of Fashion and Beauty

The article explores how the "hero's journey" narrative structure is reflected in Marni's SS25 colle
Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2024 Makeup-Free Backstage Beauty With Tyra Banks & More Models

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2024 Makeup-Free Backstage Beauty With Tyra Banks & More Models

The 2024 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show is making a highly anticipated return to New York City, feat
5 Video Games Based On Hit TV Shows

5 Video Games Based On Hit TV Shows

The article discusses the cross-pollination between entertainment mediums, focusing on the trend of
“Classic part of the game”: GTA 6 Fans Worry as They’ve Not Seen 1 Iconic Part of the Grand Theft Auto Franchise Yet, While Others Hope It’s Cut

“Classic part of the game”: GTA 6 Fans Worry as They’ve Not Seen 1 Iconic Part of the Grand Theft Auto Franchise Yet, While Others Hope It’s Cut

The article discusses the hype surrounding the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI (GTA 6) and th
Spies, breakups and thick glasses: Philly’s Pig Iron obsesses over Aimee Mann in ‘Poor Judge

Spies, breakups and thick glasses: Philly’s Pig Iron obsesses over Aimee Mann in ‘Poor Judge

The article discusses a new theatrical production called "Poor Judge" by Pig Iron Theatre, which is
Weekend Entertainment Highlights: Lizzo, Diddy & More (November 30, 2024)

Weekend Entertainment Highlights: Lizzo, Diddy & More (November 30, 2024)

This text presents various news. Lizzo is on a weight loss journey and shows off her slimmer figure.
Skyline Chili voted ‘Best Regional Fast Food’ in US, according to new poll

Skyline Chili voted ‘Best Regional Fast Food’ in US, according to new poll

Skyline Chili, a beloved Cincinnati-based fast food chain, has been named the "Best Regional Fast Fo
Governor Gianforte Launches 4th State Agency Food Drive on 5th Day of Giving

Governor Gianforte Launches 4th State Agency Food Drive on 5th Day of Giving

The Governor's Office announced the fourth annual state agency food drive competition on December 6,