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May 3, 2023

Tackling Food Waste in the U.S.: Challenges, Opportunities, and Impacts

Food waste is a global concern and on the rise with considerable environmental and economic consequences, including for North America. Reports from ReFED and the EPA show that food waste in the U.S. has increased since 2016, hitting a concerning average of 548 pounds of extra food per person. It is okay to breathe a (temporary) sigh of relief as recent data from ReFED indicates efforts to reduce food waste started to have an impact in 2019, suggesting food waste may have peaked.


The current food waste situation in the United States is filled with challenges, but it also presents opportunities to lessen waste and its effects on the environment and economy. Organizations like ReFED are at the forefront, emphasizing the importance of data and tracking to unlock insights that can drive real solutions for tackling food waste. 

 ReFED's Goals and the EPA's New Definition of Food Waste 

As a national nonprofit, ReFED aims to reduce U.S. food waste by 50% by 2030 through data-driven solutions, aligning with the United Nations' sustainable development goals.


The EPA shares this commitment and has recently revised its food waste definition to match international standards. 

The Current Food Waste Landscape and Its Impacts 

Now, hold on to your hats as the data paints a stark picture of the current food waste landscape.


  • According to ReFED: 
    Approximately 38% of all food produced or imported in the U.S. ends up as waste annually. This translates to 149 billion uneaten meals yearly, valued at $444 billion (roughly 2% of GDP).


  • According to UNEP: 
    Food waste is more than just a social and ethical issue; it's a significant environmental and economic problem. An estimated 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions are connected to unconsumed food. 

 

  • According to the WEF: 
    Food waste carries a massive economic burden for producers and consumers, amounting to a global cost of $936 billion annually.
global food waste infographic - Diversys

While the numbers are staggering, shocking even, having this data is actually a good thing, especially when we remember the adage, we cannot improve what we cannot measure. 

 

To tackle the complex food waste problem effectively, it's crucial to continue harnessing data to track downstream waste management. Data collected to date is being used to unlock valuable insights, allowing organizations to take informed, targeted actions to reduce waste, conserve resources, and mitigate climate change. 

Reducing Food Waste: Challenges and Opportunities 

A. Legislation and Regulations 

One of the challenges in reducing food waste is the need for consistent and comprehensive legislation and regulations at various levels of government. These inconsistencies can create confusion and disincentives for food businesses and consumers to reduce food waste.



Opportunities for policy interventions include standardizing date labels, expanding liability protection and tax incentives for food donation, implementing organic waste bans and recycling mandates, and supporting innovation funding and financing. 

B. Technological Advancements 

Another challenge is the need for digital transformation and technological advancements to support developing and adopting innovative solutions. There's a gap between the availability and accessibility of technologies that can help measure, monitor, prevent, or recover food waste across the supply chain.


Opportunities for increasing funding and technological advancements include establishing funds to provide grants to innovative organizations working to reduce consumer food waste. A unified data capture system can help create directories of solution providers that offer products or services capable of reducing food waste at various supply chain stages, streamlining efforts to achieve shared objectives.

C. Collaborations among Stakeholders 

A third challenge is the need for greater collaboration among stakeholders that can enable systemic change. Food waste is a complex problem that affects every sector and segment of the food system, and no single actor can solve it alone.



Opportunities for collaboration among stakeholders can be fostered through increased granularity in food production, waste disposal, and diversion data. By sharing this information, diverse stakeholders across the food system can come together to identify best practices, develop innovative solutions, and collaborate on initiatives to reduce food waste effectively. 

D. Education and awareness:

Lack of awareness and education around the issue of food waste is another significant contributor to the problem. Many people do not realize the scale of the issue or the impact that food waste has on the environment, economy, and society. Pre-conceptions about food storage, best-by-label dates and even aesthetic standards for food create a spiral effect on food waste in North American households.



By improving education and awareness, organizations can help consumers reduce their food waste and contribute to sustainability within the food system. The first step is ensuring people have a clear picture of the current situation and what they can do to limit their footprint. 

Building a Resilient and Inclusive Food System 

Addressing food waste is crucial for creating a resilient and inclusive food system that can withstand shocks and stresses like pandemics, natural disasters, and climate change. Reducing food waste can improve food security, nutrition, and health for millions of Americans facing hunger and malnutrition. Furthermore, promoting social justice and equity in the food system requires engaging diverse stakeholders and addressing the root causes of food waste, such as poverty, discrimination, and power imbalances.



Tackling food waste in North America (and globally) necessitates overcoming challenges such as legislation, funding, technological advancements, and collaboration. By harnessing technology, data, and monitoring, we can drive strategies for prevention, rescue, recycling, and enabling, ultimately making significant progress toward cutting food waste by 50% by 2030. In doing so, we will save valuable resources and mitigate climate change and create a more equitable and inclusive food system that leaves no one behind. The fight against food waste demands collective action, and the time for change is now. 

About Diversys 

Diversys is proud to have its roots in Ontario, Canada - a province widely recognized for its leadership in EPR and sustainability. Since 2019, we've been dedicated to creating innovative software solutions that drive progress toward a world without waste.


Our story is a testament to the power of hard work, customer loyalty, and big ideas. We are committed to empowering organizations with the waste recycling software solutions necessary for achieving a sustainable future. Our cutting-edge software platform is helping organizations achieve their ESG goals, meet reporting obligations, and improve operational efficiency for their recycling programs.


Our commitment to delivering world-class solutions that drive meaningful progress towards waste reduction and a more sustainable future is unwavering. Our team of industry experts is ready to help you navigate the rapidly-evolving waste management landscape as we progress toward a circular economy. 

CONTACT US NOW!

Knowledge Center

recycling-epr

Harnessing Recycling Software to Elevate Extended Producer Responsibility

By Bridget Vandenbosch • August 12, 2023
In the heart of every transformative endeavour lies a story of innovation and progressive thinking. Around the globe, the push towards a more sustainable future is gaining momentum. A potent catalyst in this transformation is the rise of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs. Nova Scotia, a province deeply committed to sustainable initiatives, finds its narrative enriched by the newly announced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs. It’s a significant step toward reducing waste and promoting resource recovery from packaging, paper products, lamps, batteries, and small household electric appliances. EPR is reshaping product designs and promoting a culture of recycling. Nova Scotia is just one example in a global movement of continued expansion of EPR programs and initiatives. When it comes to driving greater environmental outcomes in resource recovery, it's essential to recognize that while EPR is the compass, the meticulous tracking of resource recovery via advanced recycling software is the engine propelling sustainability. Leveraged effectively, data can refine methodologies, augment environmental stewardship, and create lasting changes that have tangible impacts on our planet. Understanding the intricacies of waste management and recycling becomes infinitely more actionable with precise data.

Fashioning a New Cycle: The Responsible Textile Recovery Act, Extended Producer Responsibility, and Data

By Bridget Vandenbosch • July 17, 2023
Ever pictured a world where your best shirt doesn't just look good, but it does good for our planet too? Well, some big players in the US clothing scene are working to make that happen. A new law in the works called the Responsible Textile Recovery Act (SB707) could shake up how the fashion industry deals with waste over the next few years. This law could set the tone for all future rules about waste and recycling in the US textile industry. It's all about using data and sustainable practices to make a change. This is the first time a law like this has been proposed nationally. So why do we need this law in the clothing and textile industry, and what part does data play in it? Clothes and textiles make up a whole lot of waste worldwide. According to the US EPA, the United States alone throws away over 17 million tons of textiles annually . Most of this ends up in landfills or gets burned, which harms our environment and uses up our natural resources. A solid recycling law could help turn things around. This law, known as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) , makes companies accountable for the environmental impact of their products. From creation to disposal, they're responsible. Under EPR, companies must ensure their products are properly recycled or reused at the end of their life. While it's a step in the right direction, it's also a massive task.
Tackling-Environmental-Debt

Understanding Environmental Debt: Unseen Consequences and Effective Solutions

By Bridget Vandenbosch • June 29, 2023
Debt. Yep, that's a word that can weigh you down. We've all been there, whether from investments we needed to make or those impulse buys that got the best of us. Either way, you've got to pay your dues because if you don't, that debt keeps piling up, compounding by the day. Now, imagine that same concept applied to our environment. In many ways, we've been doing the same thing with our planet's resources, chasing short-term gains while the long-term consequences keep stacking up.
lithium-ion-battery-recycling-epa

Lithium-ion Battery Recycling: A Memo from the EPA

By Bridget Vandenbosch • June 22, 2023
Lithium-ion batteries are a huge part of our lives, powering everything from the TV remote to our cellphones and electric vehicles. They’ve become the go-to choice for powering our devices because they offer a winning combination of high energy density, long-lasting performance, and compact size. But as their use grows, we face a pressing challenge: how do we ensure end-of-life batteries are properly recycled and kept out of landfills? The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a memo that could impact how processors and recyclers approach recycling end-of-life lithium-ion batteries. The memo emphasizes capturing valuable materials from lithium-ion batteries while preventing environmental harm. This won’t necessarily introduce any new regulations or rules for batteries but instead clarifies how existing universal waste and recycling rules should be applied to batteries. Taking a more sustainable approach to battery recycling is especially important with the growing interest in end-of-life lithium-ion batteries and their handling. What can recycling facilities and processors do to track battery recycling operations more efficiently and ensure their businesses align with the EPA’s stance? Understanding the EPA Memo The memo was released on May 24, 2023 , and by understanding the newly introduced guidelines and incorporating them into operations, processors can navigate the complexities of the battery recycling landscape.
SHOW MORE

Knowledge Center

recycling-epr

Harnessing Recycling Software to Elevate Extended Producer Responsibility

By Bridget Vandenbosch • August 12, 2023
In the heart of every transformative endeavour lies a story of innovation and progressive thinking. Around the globe, the push towards a more sustainable future is gaining momentum. A potent catalyst in this transformation is the rise of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs. Nova Scotia, a province deeply committed to sustainable initiatives, finds its narrative enriched by the newly announced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs. It’s a significant step toward reducing waste and promoting resource recovery from packaging, paper products, lamps, batteries, and small household electric appliances. EPR is reshaping product designs and promoting a culture of recycling. Nova Scotia is just one example in a global movement of continued expansion of EPR programs and initiatives. When it comes to driving greater environmental outcomes in resource recovery, it's essential to recognize that while EPR is the compass, the meticulous tracking of resource recovery via advanced recycling software is the engine propelling sustainability. Leveraged effectively, data can refine methodologies, augment environmental stewardship, and create lasting changes that have tangible impacts on our planet. Understanding the intricacies of waste management and recycling becomes infinitely more actionable with precise data.

Fashioning a New Cycle: The Responsible Textile Recovery Act, Extended Producer Responsibility, and Data

By Bridget Vandenbosch • July 17, 2023
Ever pictured a world where your best shirt doesn't just look good, but it does good for our planet too? Well, some big players in the US clothing scene are working to make that happen. A new law in the works called the Responsible Textile Recovery Act (SB707) could shake up how the fashion industry deals with waste over the next few years. This law could set the tone for all future rules about waste and recycling in the US textile industry. It's all about using data and sustainable practices to make a change. This is the first time a law like this has been proposed nationally. So why do we need this law in the clothing and textile industry, and what part does data play in it? Clothes and textiles make up a whole lot of waste worldwide. According to the US EPA, the United States alone throws away over 17 million tons of textiles annually . Most of this ends up in landfills or gets burned, which harms our environment and uses up our natural resources. A solid recycling law could help turn things around. This law, known as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) , makes companies accountable for the environmental impact of their products. From creation to disposal, they're responsible. Under EPR, companies must ensure their products are properly recycled or reused at the end of their life. While it's a step in the right direction, it's also a massive task.
Tackling-Environmental-Debt

Understanding Environmental Debt: Unseen Consequences and Effective Solutions

By Bridget Vandenbosch • June 29, 2023
Debt. Yep, that's a word that can weigh you down. We've all been there, whether from investments we needed to make or those impulse buys that got the best of us. Either way, you've got to pay your dues because if you don't, that debt keeps piling up, compounding by the day. Now, imagine that same concept applied to our environment. In many ways, we've been doing the same thing with our planet's resources, chasing short-term gains while the long-term consequences keep stacking up.
lithium-ion-battery-recycling-epa

Lithium-ion Battery Recycling: A Memo from the EPA

By Bridget Vandenbosch • June 22, 2023
Lithium-ion batteries are a huge part of our lives, powering everything from the TV remote to our cellphones and electric vehicles. They’ve become the go-to choice for powering our devices because they offer a winning combination of high energy density, long-lasting performance, and compact size. But as their use grows, we face a pressing challenge: how do we ensure end-of-life batteries are properly recycled and kept out of landfills? The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a memo that could impact how processors and recyclers approach recycling end-of-life lithium-ion batteries. The memo emphasizes capturing valuable materials from lithium-ion batteries while preventing environmental harm. This won’t necessarily introduce any new regulations or rules for batteries but instead clarifies how existing universal waste and recycling rules should be applied to batteries. Taking a more sustainable approach to battery recycling is especially important with the growing interest in end-of-life lithium-ion batteries and their handling. What can recycling facilities and processors do to track battery recycling operations more efficiently and ensure their businesses align with the EPA’s stance? Understanding the EPA Memo The memo was released on May 24, 2023 , and by understanding the newly introduced guidelines and incorporating them into operations, processors can navigate the complexities of the battery recycling landscape.
SHOW MORE

Knowledge Center

recycling-epr

Harnessing Recycling Software to Elevate Extended Producer Responsibility

By Bridget Vandenbosch • August 12, 2023
In the heart of every transformative endeavour lies a story of innovation and progressive thinking. Around the globe, the push towards a more sustainable future is gaining momentum. A potent catalyst in this transformation is the rise of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs. Nova Scotia, a province deeply committed to sustainable initiatives, finds its narrative enriched by the newly announced Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs. It’s a significant step toward reducing waste and promoting resource recovery from packaging, paper products, lamps, batteries, and small household electric appliances. EPR is reshaping product designs and promoting a culture of recycling. Nova Scotia is just one example in a global movement of continued expansion of EPR programs and initiatives. When it comes to driving greater environmental outcomes in resource recovery, it's essential to recognize that while EPR is the compass, the meticulous tracking of resource recovery via advanced recycling software is the engine propelling sustainability. Leveraged effectively, data can refine methodologies, augment environmental stewardship, and create lasting changes that have tangible impacts on our planet. Understanding the intricacies of waste management and recycling becomes infinitely more actionable with precise data.

Fashioning a New Cycle: The Responsible Textile Recovery Act, Extended Producer Responsibility, and Data

By Bridget Vandenbosch • July 17, 2023
Ever pictured a world where your best shirt doesn't just look good, but it does good for our planet too? Well, some big players in the US clothing scene are working to make that happen. A new law in the works called the Responsible Textile Recovery Act (SB707) could shake up how the fashion industry deals with waste over the next few years. This law could set the tone for all future rules about waste and recycling in the US textile industry. It's all about using data and sustainable practices to make a change. This is the first time a law like this has been proposed nationally. So why do we need this law in the clothing and textile industry, and what part does data play in it? Clothes and textiles make up a whole lot of waste worldwide. According to the US EPA, the United States alone throws away over 17 million tons of textiles annually . Most of this ends up in landfills or gets burned, which harms our environment and uses up our natural resources. A solid recycling law could help turn things around. This law, known as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) , makes companies accountable for the environmental impact of their products. From creation to disposal, they're responsible. Under EPR, companies must ensure their products are properly recycled or reused at the end of their life. While it's a step in the right direction, it's also a massive task.
SHOW MORE

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