By Alusch H. Amoghli
Strategic operator, International Business Developer, Founder, CEO, Entrepreneur,
Green thinker, Private lecturer, Director Development at Accor, Germany
Email: [email protected]
Food waste is a significant Contributor to Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. When organic
waste, like food scraps, ends up in landfills, it decomposes anaerobically and poses grave
threats.
Landfills: When food waste ends up in landfills, it undergoes anaerobic decomposition,
producing methane gas. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, with a much higher warming
potential than carbon dioxide over a shorter time frame. Reducing food waste can mitigate
the release of methane from landfills.
Energy: Food production is resource-intensive, requiring energy, water, and land. When food
is wasted, the resources invested in its production are also wasted. This includes the energy
used in cultivation, transportation, and processing, all of which contribute to GHG emissions.
Deforestation: The expansion of agricultural lands, often driven by the demand for more
food, can lead to deforestation and changes in land use. This process releases stored carbon in
trees and soil, contributing to increased GHG emissions.
Transportation: Transportation is a significant contributor to the carbon footprint of the
food supply chain. When food is wasted, the emissions associated with its transportation
become unnecessary, adding to the overall GHG impact.
Emissions: In addition to methane emissions in landfills, decomposing food waste releases
carbon dioxide and other gases. Proper management of food waste through composting or
anaerobic digestion can help minimize these emissions.
Plastic: In addition to the impact of food waste, the production and disposal of conventional
plastic food ware contributes to GHG emissions. The manufacturing of plastic is energy-
intensive, with the production of one ton generating approximately six tons of carbon
dioxide.
Transitioning: use of biodegradable or compostable materials, can help reduce the
environmental impact of food ware. However, it is crucial to consider the entire life cycle, as
some alternatives might have drawbacks or specific disposal requirements.
Beyond waste: Beyond contributing to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, food waste has
several other negative environmental impacts. Here are some key factors:
Biodiversity loss: Agricultural activities associated with food production can lead to habitat
destruction and biodiversity loss. When food is wasted, the negative impact on biodiversity
becomes more pronounced as the resources expended in agriculture do not contribute to
meaningful outcomes.
Water pollution: The use of fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture, coupled with runoff
from food waste in landfills, can lead to water pollution. Contaminants from spoiled or
discarded food items may enter water bodies, affecting aquatic ecosystems and water quality.
Soil degradation: Improper disposal of food waste, particularly in landfills, contributes to
soil degradation. The decomposition process can release harmful substances and contribute to
the formation of pollutants, negatively impacting soil health.
Energy consumption: The energy expended throughout the food supply chain, from
production to distribution and storage, is wasted when food is discarded. This unnecessary
energy consumption exacerbates the environmental footprint of the food system.
Land use change: The demand for agricultural land can lead to deforestation and changes in
land use. When food is wasted, the land dedicated to its production has been used without
yielding the intended benefits, contributing to deforestation and habitat destruction.
Overfishing: In the case of seafood, overfishing is a significant environmental concern.
When seafood is wasted, it compounds the strain on fisheries and marine ecosystems,
threatening the balance of aquatic environments.
Packaging waste: Excessive packaging is often associated with food products. When food is
wasted, so is the packaging material, contributing to the overall burden of plastic and other
waste in landfills and oceans.
Eutrophication: The decomposition of organic matter in food waste can contribute to
nutrient runoff, leading to eutrophication in water bodies. This process disrupts aquatic
ecosystems, causing issues such as algal blooms and oxygen depletion.
Air pollution: Landfills, where a significant portion of food waste ends up, can produce
various air pollutants. These pollutants include Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and
odorous compounds, contributing to air pollution in surrounding areas.
Addressing food waste comprehensively involves not only reducing GHG emissions but also
mitigating these broader environmental impacts. Sustainable practices, responsible
consumption, and efficient waste management systems are essential to minimizing the
negative consequences of food waste on the environment.