Food waste is a global problem that has far-reaching consequences for the environment, the economy, and society. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), one-third of the food produced globally for human consumption is lost or wasted every year. Iceland Foods, a UK-based supermarket chain, has taken a bold step to address this issue by pledging to reduce food waste in all its stores. In this blog post, we will explore Iceland Foods‘ commitment to reducing food waste and its positive impact on the environment.
Iceland Foods’ Efforts to Reduce Food Waste
Iceland Foods‘ commitment to reducing food waste is not new. In 2015, the company launched its “Waste Not Want Not” campaign, which aimed to reduce food waste across its stores. As part of the campaign, the company set a target to reduce food waste by 50% by 2020. Iceland Foods achieved this goal two years ahead of schedule, reducing food waste by 51% in 2018.
To continue its efforts, Iceland Foods has introduced several measures to reduce food waste, including:
- “Food for Now” Scheme: This scheme allows customers to purchase food items that are close to their expiry date at a reduced price. This initiative not only reduces food waste but also makes it more affordable for customers.
- Donation of Surplus Food: Iceland Foods works with several charities and community groups to donate surplus food items. In 2020 alone, the company donated over 3 million meals to those in need.
- Supply Chain Management: Iceland Foods works closely with its suppliers to ensure that the supply chain is efficient and that food waste is minimized.
Positive Impact on the Environment
Iceland Foods‘ commitment to reducing food waste has a significant positive impact on the environment. By reducing food waste, the company is also reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as wasted food is a significant contributor to climate change. When food is thrown away, it rots in landfills and produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas. By reducing food waste, Iceland Foods is helping to mitigate climate change.
Moreover, by donating surplus food to those in need, Iceland Foods is also contributing to reducing food poverty and food insecurity, which are prevalent issues in many parts of the world.
Economic Benefits of Reducing Food Waste for Businesses
In addition to the positive environmental and social impacts of reducing food waste, there are also economic benefits for businesses like Iceland Foods. By reducing food waste, companies can save money on food purchasing and disposal costs, as well as reduce the risk of potential legal and reputational issues associated with wasted food. Furthermore, by donating surplus food to charities and community groups, businesses can also generate positive PR and enhance their reputation as socially responsible companies. In this section, we will explore the economic benefits of reducing food waste for businesses and how Iceland Foods is leveraging this to its advantage.
In conclusion, Iceland Foods‘ commitment to reducing food waste is a commendable initiative that has a positive impact on the environment, society, and the economy. By introducing various measures to reduce food waste, such as the “Food for Now” scheme and donation of surplus food, Iceland Foods is setting an example for other companies to follow. The reduction of food waste not only helps to mitigate climate change but also contributes to reducing food poverty and food insecurity. It is crucial for all of us to take responsibility for our actions and make conscious efforts to reduce food waste, and Iceland Foods is leading the way in this regard.
