CIRCULÉIRE Joins EPA Food Waste Action Group to Drive Industry-Wide Efforts in Reducing Food Waste

“With almost 800,000 tonnes of food waste generated in Ireland annually, meeting Ireland’s commitment to halve food waste by 2030 is very challenging, and we don’t have much time. We need to work together; every business along the food supply chain and in the food services sector must play their part to reduce food waste. These businesses are called on to sign the Food Waste Charter and make a commitment to prevent food waste.”

Laura Burke, EPA Director General

Ireland is taking a stand against food waste, and the commitment to halve food waste by 2030 under the UN Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 is gaining momentum. Today the Food Waste Charter, championed by the EPA and an Action Group including CIRCULÉIRE, the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, was signed by numerous agencies and stakeholders, marking a significant milestone in Ireland’s efforts to combat this pressing issue.

Reducing food waste goes beyond environmental benefits—it is a crucial climate action as well. Globally, food waste accounts for approximately 10% of greenhouse gas emissions. Minister Ossian Smyth, Minister of State with responsibility for Public Procurement, eGovernment, and Circular Economy, highlighted the importance of this initiative, saying, “Signing up to the Food Waste Charter is a public demonstration of commitment to a collaborative and collective manner to address food waste.” By actively engaging with the Food Waste Charter, businesses can align with their climate action goals while simultaneously reducing costs.

Anthony Procter, Managing Director of Aryzta and a founding member of CIRCULÉIRE, has been announced as a Food Waste Charter champion for the Bakery Sector. This recognition underscores the commitment of Aryzta and the support CIRCULÉIRE provides through their membership. Their annual baseline survey and reporting requirements will contribute significantly to meeting the Food Waste Charter’s objectives.

Other industry representatives who signed the charter today include Panelto Foods, Stapleton’s Bakery, Ballymaguire Foods, Marks & Spencer, and Irish Fish Canners.

Read the full article here EPA calls on food sector businesses to commit to reducing food waste by signing the Food Waste Charter