Transforming European Food Systems: How the WRAP EU Initiative Tackles Food Waste Challenges | FoodBev Media

WRAP, a global environmental NGO, has teamed up with the International Food Waste Coalition (IFWC) to create WRAP EU. This new organization aims to change food systems and tackle unsustainable practices in the European Union.

WRAP EU will focus on reducing food waste, especially in the hospitality and food service sectors, while also reaching into the broader food supply chain. This effort comes at a time when food service is responsible for about €35 billion in food waste, or 11% of total food waste in Europe, according to Eurostat.

WRAP EU was officially launched during an IFWC meeting in Paris, with key figures like WRAP CEO Harriet Lamb and IFWC president Didier Sandoz in attendance. Their goal is ambitious: to halve food waste by 2030.

Lamb stated, “To address climate change, we need global effort. By establishing WRAP EU, we can influence key programs that encourage sustainable practices in every business and home.” She emphasized the importance of collaboration to enhance their impact in reducing food waste.

Sandoz echoed her thoughts, expressing excitement about the partnership. He noted that WRAP EU will amplify their efforts to lower emissions associated with food waste, contributing to the global goal of cutting food waste in half.

With WRAP EU, existing initiatives are expected to strengthen. Members have already reported a 25% drop in food waste across 5,000 locations, covering around 60% of the EU’s contract catering market and 15% of the hotel sector.

WRAP EU will adopt a standardized reporting method tailored for the hospitality and food service industries. This is essential for helping members track their food waste and improve their practices.

Major industry players like Sodexo and Accor have shown their commitment to this initiative. Sodexo’s chief sustainability officer highlighted how significant this partnership is for their food waste efforts. Accor’s chief sustainability officer pointed out the urgent need for transformative changes in food waste management to achieve their goals by 2030.

WRAP EU is WRAP’s third international base, joining operations in Asia-Pacific and the Americas. It aims to connect with the Global Network of Food Pacts to exchange knowledge and best practices for effective food waste reduction strategies.

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