The Mediterranean region, famous for its delicious food and vibrant cities, faces a big challenge: food loss and waste. To tackle this issue, the Sustainable Food Systems Mediterranean (SFS-MED) Initiative is hosting a webinar called “Coordinating Local and National Actions to Reduce Food Loss and Waste in Mediterranean Cities” on January 28, 2025.
Why This Matters
Over 70% of people in the Mediterranean live in cities, making urban areas major hubs for food use and waste. Here are some shocking facts:
- The European Union throws away 59 million tonnes of food every year.
- In the Near East and North Africa, each person wastes about 114 kilograms of food annually.
This creates serious problems for the environment, the economy, and society. Reducing food loss and waste is crucial for protecting the planet, improving food security, and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
What the Webinar Will Cover
This webinar will bring together local and national leaders to work on solutions for reducing food loss and waste. Key topics include:
- Aligning Policies: How national policies can support local governments in taking action.
- Urban Innovation: Ways cities can lead with creative solutions and contribute to national strategies.
- Circular Economy Ideas: Turning food waste into compost or biogas to save resources and create jobs.
Cities Can Lead the Way
Cities have a unique role to play in fighting food waste. By focusing on circular economy ideas, they can:
- Use resources more efficiently.
- Reduce emissions.
- Create green jobs and boost local economies.
A Global Opportunity
While the webinar focuses on the Mediterranean, the insights and strategies shared have the potential to inspire action in other parts of the world. The challenges of food loss and waste are universal, and the solutions developed in this region can serve as a model for cities globally. By learning from these experiences, other regions can adapt similar approaches to fit their local contexts and needs.
Don’t Miss Out
This webinar is a chance for everyone—from policymakers to community leaders—to share ideas and build practical solutions for a sustainable Mediterranean.
Event Details:
- Date: January 28, 2025
- Theme: Coordinating Local and National Actions to Reduce Food Loss and Waste in Mediterranean Cities
Find out more about the event, including the agenda, on the official event page. To register right now click here.
At Green Initiative, we believe collaboration is key. Let’s join forces to create a sustainable future for the Mediterranean and beyond.
