Mexico faces a significant challenge with food waste, throwing away around 30 million tons of food each year. This waste is the highest per capita in Latin America, according to the Mexican Food Bank Network, known as Red BAMX.
To tackle this issue, Red BAMX has teamed up with the Mexican Consumer Products Industry Council (CONMEXICO). They’ve signed an agreement to boost food recovery efforts and work towards reducing waste. Their focus is on creating strong food security through circular economy initiatives.
Under this agreement, Red BAMX will manage the donation of safe food and consumer products that can’t be sold, for various reasons. They’ll handle logistics and distribution to those in need, ensuring transparency through regular impact reports. Meanwhile, CONMEXICO will encourage companies to participate in the Food Recovery and Utilization Program, fostering direct connections with food banks.
Mariana Jiménez, the Director General of Red BAMX, emphasizes that food should never go to waste when it can help others. This partnership is crucial for reducing both hunger and waste in Mexico.
Claudia Jañez, Executive President of CONMEXICO, stresses the industry’s commitment to a circular economy and sustainability. The agreement will also feature communication campaigns and evaluations to measure impact and enhance recovery strategies.
Food waste happens at every stage of the supply chain. It’s estimated that two truckloads of food are thrown away every minute in Mexico, even though it’s still fit for consumption. Jiménez adds that this waste leads to economic losses amounting to 2.5% of Mexico’s GDP. The environmental impact is also substantial, likened to the emissions of 16 million vehicles.
In addition to tackling food waste, Red BAMX is also boosting operational efficiency and distribution. For instance, Grupo Herdez’s initiative, Saber Nutrir, is participating in a fundraising event to support solar panel installations at food banks. This solar setup could cut energy costs by up to 90%, allowing these banks to use more funds for food distribution.
Malú Hernández-Pons, who leads Saber Nutrir, views this as a chance to promote sustainability while improving community quality of life. The event will feature 5km and 10km routes and will collect donations like blankets and school supplies for those in need.
Experts highlight that integrating technology and renewable energy can significantly impact hunger and social issues. Daniel Alcalá from INVEX Controladora sees the potential in this collaboration to create meaningful change.
Saber Nutrir aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on ending hunger and promoting decent work. Their programs, active in the State of Mexico and Yucatán, include initiatives like seed banks and community kitchens.
As these efforts unfold, social media trends show growing support for initiatives that tackle food waste and improve sustainability. People are increasingly sharing their thoughts and suggestions online, hoping for more awareness and action.
In summary, Mexico’s fight against food waste requires collaboration, innovation, and community spirit. With strong partnerships and a commitment to sustainability, there’s hope for a future where food is valued, and hunger is diminished.
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Agribusiness & Food, food waste, food security, Circular Economy, sustainability, renewable energy, Solar Panels, food banks, ESG, Supply Chain, sustainable development, Food Recovery, Social Impact, Mariana Jiménez, CLAUDIA JAÑEZ, Malú Hernández-Pons, Daniel Alcalá, Red BAMX, Red de Bancos de Alimentos de México, ConMéxico, Grupo Herdez, Saber Nutrir, Ammper, INVEX Controladora, Mexico
