International Food Loss and Waste Awareness Day by Shenequa Williams and Carol-Faye Bynoe-George

photo courtesy of the UN website

International Food Loss and Waste Awareness Day (IDAFLW), observed on September 29th, highlights the critical issue of food loss and waste globally. This year’s theme is “Stop Food Loss and Waste. For the People. For the Planet.” Annually, around one-third of all food produced—about 1.3 billion tons—is lost or wasted, contributing significantly to global hunger, climate change, and economic inefficiency.

In small island nations like Antigua and Barbuda, the issue of food waste is particularly pressing. The country relies heavily on food importation, making it vulnerable whenever there are global supply disruptions. However, on the positive side, these challenges also provide opportunities for Antigua and Barbuda to strengthen its local food systems. A perfect and recent example was COVID-19 Pandemic.  The experience of the pandemic made most if not All appreciate and very aware of the availability and importance of FOOD to say the least.

The government of our twin-island nation, especially through the Ministry of Agriculture has been proactive in promoting local agricultural practices and sustainable farming methods to reduce reliance on imports and minimize food wastage. Awareness campaigns educate citizens, to include farmers, consumers and other stakeholders on reducing municipal, commercial or household food waste through better production practices and storage, meal planning and repurposing leftover foods.

Community and other initiatives, such as farmers’ markets and community gardens, support the consumption of local produce and advocate consuming only what is required are some of the measures used for the reduction of Food loss and wastage. Additionally, the Tourism sector has adopted sustainable practices, including portions control and the donating of surplus food.

International Food Loss and Waste Awareness Day underscores the importance of global and local efforts in tackling food loss and waste. In Antigua and Barbuda, reducing food waste is not only an environmental (according to the UN 8 to 10% of greenhouse gases is caused by food waste) and economic priority but also a vital component of building a resilient and sustainable food system. Through collective actions, we can contribute to a more food-secure future.