Food Waste in Ireland – Assessment, Environmental & Economic Burden, and Mitigation Strategies

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) estimated that globally, one point three billion tonnes of food were wasted annually, contributing to food shortages, water stress, biodiversity loss, up to ten percent of greenhouse gas emissions, and significant economic losses. In Ireland, approximately one point two seven million tonnes of food waste were generated each year, representing a carbon footprint of three point six million tonnes of CO2. Given Ireland's commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, a fifty percent reduction in both food waste and emissions was necessary by 2030.

The FORWARD project investigated the quantification of food waste generated by Irish households. It developed simulation models to analyze estimate sensitivity and future scenarios, identifying spatiotemporal, occupational, and demographic clusters of food waste streams. This approach allowed for accurate estimates of current and future risk factors and the creation of targeted interventions.

The project employed Life Cycle and Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCA/LCCA) to measure the environmental and economic costs of food waste in Ireland. An Environmental-Economic Footprint index was developed as a decision support tool, providing evidence-based recommendations to inform policy development and help consumers adopt responsible and sustainable behaviors.