A coalition of leading environmental and food-sector organisations has called on world leaders to take stronger action on food waste ahead of COP31, warning that time is running out to meet global targets.
The group, which includes WRAP, WWF, the World Resources Institute, ReFED and the Global FoodBanking Network, has issued a joint call urging the COP31 Presidency and Climate High-Level Champion to make cutting food loss and waste a central part of climate policy.
The appeal was launched during London Climate Action Week and comes as countries have less than four years to achieve the United Nations goal of halving global food waste by 2030.
According to the organisations, food loss and waste account for between 8% and 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Every year, more than one billion tonnes of food are discarded despite being suitable for consumption.
The coalition is calling for three key actions. First, it wants food waste reduction to be formally recognised as a major climate solution and a priority area at COP31.
Secondly, it is urging governments to turn existing pledges into practical policies, backed by clear implementation plans and robust monitoring.
Thirdly, it wants greater investment to support projects that reduce food waste, improve food security, cut methane emissions and strengthen community resilience.
The organisations argue that tackling food waste offers multiple benefits. As well as reducing emissions, it can help address hunger, improve food security and make better use of natural resources. At the same time, climate change is making the problem worse, with rising temperatures, extreme heat and drought increasing the amount of food lost before it reaches consumers.
The call to action was presented at a London Climate Action Week event attended by policymakers, climate experts and campaigners, including UK Environment Minister Mary Creagh and representatives from the Global Methane Hub and COP31 leadership team.
The initiative builds on a similar appeal made to national governments last year and aligns with commitments emerging from recent UN climate negotiations.
The coalition says it will continue working with governments and businesses to provide technical expertise, support new partnerships and help deliver practical solutions. Its ultimate goal is a food system that wastes less, produces fewer emissions and provides greater food security for a growing global population.
Lisa Moon, President and CEO, The Global FoodBanking Network, said: ‘Reducing food waste is one of the most effective and efficient ways to cut emissions and improve food security – which has been recognised by the COP31 Presidency and Climate High-Level Champion.
‘Working our partner food banks in more than 50 countries, GFN collects and redistributes surplus food to millions of people, while reducing methane emissions. We urge global leaders to follow-up their bold vision with action that will unlock resources and drive on-the-ground progress toward more a heathier future for people and the planet.’
Photo: simon peel