In the world’s grand tapestry of challenges, one issue casts a long shadow – food waste. It’s a problem that affects economies, societies, and the environment, and it’s a crisis that calls for immediate attention and action. According to a report by the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, Pakistan wastes 26% of its food production yearly. This isn’t just a colossal economic loss; it’s a moral and ethical dilemma.
Pakistan is no stranger to the global food waste dilemma. In a nation where millions struggle to secure a daily meal, it’s heart-wrenching to acknowledge that around 36 million tonnes of food go to waste every year. While food is squandered, a significant portion of our population faces food insecurity. It’s a stark paradox that we, as a society, must confront head-on.
The Global Hunger Index 2020 ranks Pakistan at 88 out of 132 countries. This ranking is a sobering reminder that while we waste food, many of our fellow citizens face chronic hunger. Data from the World Food Programme estimates that 43 percent of Pakistan’s population grapples with food insecurity, with 18 percent experiencing severe shortages. These statistics should jolt us into action.
The consequences of food waste extend far beyond the immediate loss of sustenance. They ripple through the fabric of our society and economy, leaving scars that may take generations to heal. High child mortality rates, malnutrition, stunting, and anemia are among the long-term consequences of food insecurity. These issues impede physical and mental development, reducing future labor productivity and weakening our nation’s potential.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that malnutrition and its associated outcomes cost Pakistan’s economy approximately 3 percent of GDP, which translates to USD 7.6 billion annually. Food wastage also exerts upward pressure on food prices and contributes to inflation, affecting us all.
In the face of this daunting challenge, Rizq Trust emerged as a beacon of hope. Comprising dedicated individuals and driven by an unshakable commitment to eliminating hunger, Rizq embarked on a mission to bridge the gap between food waste and food insecurity. Their journey began with the creation of a Facebook page that rapidly garnered the attention of over 2,000 people overnight.
Rizq is an example of how social entrepreneurship can transform societies. Started by a group of Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) students, it now operates a full-fledged food bank in Islamabad, alongside a food bank and three ration centers in Lahore. Rizq’s impact extends far beyond statistics; they have served over 1.5 million meals, distributed over 20,000 school lunches, and provided 4,500 daigs and 3,500 ration packages.
While Rizq’s efforts have been extraordinary, they understand that the battle against food waste requires a multi-pronged approach. Working collaboratively with government and civil society entities, Rizq Trust has been at the forefront of advocating for legal solutions to the food waste crisis
A monumental achievement in this endeavor was the ‘Disposal of Excess Food Regulation 2019,’ passed by the Punjab Food Authority (PFA). This regulation sets a precedent in Pakistan, providing a structured framework for addressing food wastage and ensuring that excess food reaches those in need. Leftover food from restaurants and hotels is now channeled towards deserving individuals, effectively reducing waste while combating hunger.
One of the key aspects of this regulation is the introduction of a reward system. Hotels and restaurants that actively participate in providing food to those in need will receive reward points. This incentivizes businesses to contribute to this noble cause and fosters a sense of social responsibility.
As we celebrate the success of the ‘Disposal of Excess Food Regulation 2019,’ it’s clear that we must continue down this path. Food waste legislation is a vital step in the right direction, but our journey is far from over. To further strengthen these efforts, we proposed several measures:
National Implementation is one of them, the success of the regulation in Punjab should serve as a blueprint for other provinces. Similar legislation should be implemented at the national level to create a comprehensive approach to food waste reduction.
Food-Sharing Mobile Apps could be an amazing option that can connect donors with deserving recipients efficiently. Prominent food donation organizations can collaborate with restaurants and hotels to collect surplus food and distribute it among those in need.
We, as a nation, must collectively commit to reducing food waste, not only as a moral obligation but as a strategic imperative for a prosperous and sustainable future.
The ‘Disposal of Excess Food Regulation 2019’ is a proof of what can be achieved when passionate individuals and dedicated organizations like Rizq Trust join forces with policymakers to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time. As we move forward, let us remember that every meal saved from going to waste is a step toward alleviating hunger and building a more equitable society.
In this legalizing of the fight against food waste, we find not just a solution to a problem but a beacon of hope, a promise of a brighter future where no one sleeps hungry, where every morsel of food finds its way to those in need.
