Statement of the United Nations Secretary-General on International Zero Waste Day 2026; March 30th.

 

Food waste is a global crisis hiding in plain sight. Every day, the world throws away enough food to prepare 1 billion meals, while nearly 9% of humanity goes hungry. This imbalance is not only unjust it is also fueling climate change, degrading ecosystems, and putting our future food security at risk. This year’s International Day of Zero Waste shines a spotlight on the urgent need to address food waste across the entire supply chain from households to businesses to governments. As United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres highlights, “We cannot take food for granted.” Consumers can make a difference through smarter shopping and cooking habits. Retailers can reduce losses and redistribute surplus food. Cities can strengthen waste separation systems, while governments can drive systemic change through climate action, biodiversity plans, and public-private partnerships. By halving food waste by 2030, we can cut methane emissions, build resilient and circular food systems, create green jobs, reduce food insecurity, and prevent up to $1 trillion in economic losses annually. Together, let’s build the zero-waste food systems we need to nourish both people and the planet.