On National Stop Food Waste Day, which took place on Friday the 1st of March, 2024, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D., highlighted the collective responsibility in addressing food waste. He indicated the financial and environmental impact, citing an average annual cost of €700 per household.
The focus this year is taking the EPA’s ‘Stop Food Waste Challenge,’ encouraging people to monitor and reduce waste, particularly items like leftovers, bread, fruits, and vegetables. The purpose of the day is to enable households to identify the foods they waste the most and take action to reduce that waste.
Minister McConalogue emphasised that reducing food waste is a daily climate action and urged households to participate in the challenge to identify and minimise waste. This initiative aims to promote awareness and encourage simple steps for savings on food bills. It also acknowledges the contribution of primary producers, processors and those who work to supply us with food.
Minister of State with responsibility for Public Procurement, eGovernment, and Circular Economy, Ossian Smyth T.D., emphasised the significant resources invested in food production and the role of waste reduction in combating climate change. He urged individuals to adopt effective food management practices, supporting Ireland’s transition to a circular economy and reducing carbon emissions.
For more information on the Stop Food Waste Challenge, click here.