UAE Aims to Halve Food Waste by 2030

National Study Launched to Reduce Food Waste - 50% Reduction Goal by 2030

Food waste is a global issue that significantly impacts both the environment and the economy. The UAE has taken a historic step to address this waste by launching its first national study to measure food loss and waste. The project, led by ne’ma, the National Food Loss and Waste Initiative, aims to reduce food waste in the country by 50% by 2030.

The ne’ma Initiative - Collaboration for Sustainability

The ne’ma initiative will collect data from 3,000 participants across the seven emirates, including households, farms, restaurants, and supermarkets. This comprehensive 18-month survey will form the basis of the UAE's first food loss and waste index, which will inform future strategies.

The project involves several key players, including:

- Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE)

- Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA)

- Tadweer Group

- Dubai Municipality

- Aldar Properties

The collaboration aims to introduce innovative solutions and reduce food waste at the community level. Aldar has emphasized the participation of schools, residential communities, and hotels in pilot projects that promote sustainable practices.

Community Fridges and Color-Coded Bags - Sustainable Solutions

One of the project's notable initiatives is that 60% of restaurants in Yas Mall donate excess food to community fridges, which needful people can access. This commitment to sustainability highlights the restaurant sector's crucial role in combating waste.

Additionally, ne’ma distributes special color-coded bags to participants, allowing precise tracking of what types of food are discarded and why. This data collection is invaluable for effective planning and detailed waste reduction strategies.

Educational Programs for Future Generations

The project not only examines current consumption habits but also emphasizes education. ADAFSA has integrated food waste education into school curriculums to ensure that young generations handle food more conscientiously. These programs aim to make sustainability and waste reduction a natural part of daily life.

Strategic Planning for Reducing Food Waste

According to the Executive Director of Communication and Awareness at Tadweer Group, the key to waste reduction is accurate data collection and strategic planning. "We know the quantities, but we also need to understand the trends. We must know whether to increase or decrease production," he said, highlighting that accurate data facilitates the development of national waste policy.

UAE's First Food Loss and Waste Baseline Survey

The UAE Food Loss and Waste Baseline Study is a significant milestone on the country's path to sustainability. The results will not only shape national policies but also encourage households and businesses to minimize waste. The country aims to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030, setting a global example in sustainable food management.

The comprehensive report will be available internationally, promoting global knowledge sharing in reducing food waste and implementing sustainable food systems.

Summary

The UAE's commitment to reducing food waste is exemplary. The ne’ma initiative can guide both national and global efforts to make food management more sustainable through data-driven decisions. Educational programs, community fridges, color-coded bags, and thoughtful planning all contribute to achieving the goal - a 50% reduction by 2030. The project's success may herald a new era in sustainability and the fight against food waste in the UAE.

(Source: National Food Loss and Waste Study.)