Food waste is a global concern that has been steadily rising over the years and the lack of concern along with a growing global population will continue to worsen the effects that it has on our home, Planet Earth. With the identification of 4 sources of food waste, different level of contributions are made depending on the level of development of the country. Food wasting behaviour can be justified by the Theory of Planned Behaviour as well as the Tragedy of the Commons, where our behavioural intent does not match our attitudes, further aggravated by the continued exploitation of the food resource.
Accompanied with the indifference and the growing affluence, food waste will continue to be a problem for everyone due to the impacts that cannot be repaired easily. Specifically, environmental impact that food wastage causes is no doubt one of the more potent damage, as it results in climate change and affecting the lives of every biodiversity on earth. However, with existing solutions in play, these damages can be reversed a little by little when people take action.
I strongly believe that food wastage is not an insurmountable problem. Following this quote “there is going to be a light at the end of the tunnel”, I see a beam of hope that Earth can recover and rehabilitate from the damages it has seen from food wasting. While it may take years, active participation by key stakeholders in the food industry and the common individual can make a difference no matter how small it is.
But before you go, always remember that the freshness, edibility and the taste of a food is not solely determined by its appearance! Perhaps, we could all try to recreate a dish with alternative ingredients, or even creating a new recipe with leftovers 🙂