IT is heart-breaking to see how millions of people struggle to get their next meal, while in the same world so much food is wasted every day. According to estimates, 30-40 per cent of our food supply is wasted each year. This means millions of tonnes of perfectly edible food end up in garbage.

Reducing food waste is not purely about saving resources; it is about fighting hunger, malnutrition and environmental damage, and promoting sustainable development. So, we must do whatever is possible to tackle this issue effectively and to ensure everyone has access to nutritious, affordable food.

We cannot ignore the human cost of our collective inaction. First of all, we, as individuals, must stop wasting any food. Only then will we have the right to convince others to follow suit. Moreover, we need to start by raising awareness about how much food is being wasted and its impact on food security and social justice. Education campaigns aimed at consumers, businesses and policymakers can cultivate a culture of min- dfulness and responsibility around food consumption and waste management.

Food rescue programmes, redistribution networks and community food banks can help redirect surplus food to those in need. Legislative measures, such as tax breaks for food donations and penalties for excessive waste, can encourage more sustainable practices among businesses and individuals alike. Furthermore, investing in better agricultural infrastructure, post-harvest technologies, and value chain improvements can immensely help minimise food losses and improve supply chain efficiency.

It is time Pakistan faced the painful truth of plenty amidst abject poverty and hunger. Our commitment to reducing food waste as well as ensuring fair access to food for everyone can help us build a more just, sustainable and compassionate society for our generations to come. They do deserve that much.

Muhammad Shahjahan Memon
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, August 25th, 2024