Food Waste Environmental Impact Assessment

Food waste constitutes a global concern with wide-ranging environmental repercussions. In this chapter, we delve into the assessment of food waste's environmental impact, underscoring its significant effects on our planet. The chapter explores the primary drivers behind food waste and examines the economic, social, and ethical aspects of this issue. The central focus of the chapter is on the evaluation of the environmental consequences of food waste. It discusses the release of greenhouse gas emissions resulting from food waste, as the decomposition of organic matter in landfills leads to the generation of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Furthermore, it highlights the wastage of energy, water, and land resources in food production, transportation, and disposal processes. The chapter underscores the critical role of reducing food waste as a climate mitigation strategy. Moreover, it outlines various methods and tools for quantifying food waste and assessing its environmental impact, including the utilization of life cycle assessments.