From fields to trash: The reality of food waste in Bangladesh

Food waste is a growing issue worldwide, and Bangladesh is no exception. Every day, thousands of tons of food are wasted, while millions of people still suffer from hunger.

The problem is not just about economic loss, but it also affects the environment and the efforts of farmers who work hard to produce food. This article will explore the severity of food waste in Bangladesh, its impacts on farmers, the environment, and offer possible solutions to reduce food waste.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, globally, around 1.3 billion tons of food is wasted each year, which accounts for about one-third of all the food produced. This is a staggering number considering the millions of people around the world who do not have enough to eat. In Bangladesh, the situation is just as alarming. 10,000 tons of food are wasted every day. This wasted food is enough to feed 4 million people for an entire day. In Dhaka city alone, about 3,700 tons of food are thrown away every day, and a significant portion of this waste comes from weddings, parties, and restaurants.

While food is being wasted in cities, the farmers who grow it are often struggling to make ends meet. Farmers in Bangladesh work tirelessly to produce food, often under difficult conditions. They face challenges such as unpredictable weather, lack of resources, and low market prices. For example, producing one kilogram of rice requires 3,000 to 5,000 liters of water. Despite their hard work, many farmers are unable to get a fair price for their crops, leading them to waste food right in their fields. The lack of a fair market system forces them to abandon their crops, further contributing to food waste.

Food waste is not just an economic problem; it also harms the environment. When food is wasted, it means that all the resources that went into producing it—water, energy, and land—are also wasted. The production of food results in greenhouse gas emissions which contribute to climate change. For example, if food waste were a country, it would be the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases after China and the United States. Additionally, when food decomposes in landfills, it produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas that accelerates global warming. By reducing food waste, we can save precious resources and reduce our environmental impact.

Food waste also has a massive economic cost. In Bangladesh, the cost of wasted food is estimated to be around BDT 50,000 crore annually. This money could be better used to improve infrastructure, healthcare, and education. The economic loss from food waste is a reminder of how valuable food is and why we need to take steps to prevent waste. Moreover, food waste contributes to inflation and increased food prices, making it harder for low-income families to access affordable food.

Solutions to Reduce Food Waste

To combat food waste, we all need to take action. Here are some practical steps that can help reduce food waste:

Plan meals carefully: One of the main reasons food is wasted is because people buy more than they need. By planning meals and buying only what is necessary, we can reduce waste significantly.

Use leftovers wisely: Leftover food can be used in creative ways. For example, leftover rice can be used to make fried rice or soups. Sharing leftovers with neighbors or donating to food banks is also a great way to prevent waste.

Donate excess food: In many countries, food banks collect food that would otherwise be wasted and distribute it to those in need. People can donate leftover food to organizations working to feed the hungry.

Educate the community: Raising awareness about food waste is critical. Schools, community centers, and local organisations can hold campaigns to educate people about the consequences of food waste and how to reduce it.

Support farmers and fair trade: Supporting local farmers and purchasing food at fair prices can help reduce waste in the food supply chain. Fair trade ensures that farmers are paid fairly for their work, reducing the likelihood of them abandoning crops.

Each one of us can play a role in reducing food waste. From individuals to businesses, everyone has a part to play. For instance, restaurants can donate leftover food to charities and large events like weddings and parties can ensure that food is served in smaller portions to avoid excess waste. Additionally, individuals should avoid buying more than they need, make use of leftovers, and compost food scraps instead of throwing them away.

Government policies are also crucial in addressing food waste. A robust system for food distribution, supporting local farmers, and creating awareness campaigns can significantly reduce waste across the country.

Food waste is a problem that affects everyone, from the farmer in the field to the consumer in the city. The good news is that we can make a difference. By planning our meals, using leftovers, and supporting fair trade, we can reduce food waste and help those who are hungry. The next time you throw away food, think about the millions who are going without, and ask yourself: what can I do to help? Let's all take responsibility and make a conscious effort to reduce food waste for the sake of our environment, economy, and fellow citizens.

Irin akter shuchana is a youth fellow at the International Centre for Climate Change and Development (ICCCAD)

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.