Dec 25, 2020
Food loss and waste refers to edible food that is discarded and poses environmental challenges. Reducing food waste is a global concern, and raising awareness among both households and the food industry is essential. Companies are addressing the issue by promoting reuse and offering discounts on items nearing their expiration date. These efforts help reduce CO2 emissions and support sustainable resource use.
Food loss and waste refers to edible food that is discarded. This is not only wasteful but also contributes to environmental harm. Disposing of food generates large amounts of CO2, and significant energy is consumed in producing food that ultimately goes to waste. So, what measures are being taken to reduce this environmental impact?
In fiscal year 2017 (FY2017), Japan generated an estimated 25.5 million tons of food waste, including both edible and inedible parts. Of this, 6.12 million tons were edible items such as unsold or non-standard products. Food loss and waste falls into two main categories: commercial and household. Although commercial food waste is slightly higher, both make up nearly equal portions of the total.
To reduce food waste, we need to be mindful both at home and when shopping or dining out. Commercial food loss and waste can be further broken down by industry: food production, wholesale, retail, and food services. In 2017, total commercial food waste was 17.67 million tons, of which 3.28 million tons were edible. The food production sector accounted for 80 % (14.11 million tons) and is also the most advanced in recycling efforts. In the retail sector, major convenience stores are working to reduce waste by offering point-based rewards for purchasing items nearing their expiration date.
Food waste is first reduced at the production stage, and any unavoidable waste is recycled into animal feed, fertilizer, or recovered as energy through methane conversion. In line with the SDGs, Japan has set a national target to halve food waste across the entire supply chain by FY2030, compared to FY2000 levels—reducing from 5.47 million tons to 2.73 million tons.
As a manufacturer of agricultural machinery and marine engines, Yanmar is involved not only in the production of agricultural and marine products but also in providing equipment for recovering heat and electricity. In addition, Yanmar offers solutions that convert food waste into thermal and electric energy, supporting resource recycling and environmental sustainability.