Statement of the UN Environment Programme Executive Director on International Zero Waste Day 2026; March 30th.

 

Today, the world marks the International Day of Zero Waste — a global call to rethink how we produce, consume, and manage our resources. This year’s theme, “Zero Waste Starts on Your Plate,” puts the spotlight on food waste — a preventable crisis happening in our homes and across the food system. In 2022 alone, an estimated 1 billion tonnes of food was wasted, even as hundreds of millions of people faced hunger. Food loss and waste have far-reaching impacts. They contribute 8–10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with food waste alone generating significant methane — a powerful driver of climate change. Reducing this waste is one of the fastest ways to cut emissions, protect natural resources, and strengthen food systems. The benefits go beyond the environment. Preventing food waste saves money, supports livelihoods, and creates opportunities through circular economy approaches. From households to cities to national governments, everyone has a role to play. Initiatives led by United Nations Environment Programme, alongside global partners, are helping drive action — from supporting cities and businesses to embedding food waste reduction into climate strategies. Together, we can cut emissions, reduce food insecurity, and build a more sustainable, zero-waste future. Because real change starts on our plates.