Figures published today (27 June) suggested there had been no “significant change” in the amount of food waste generated for the years 2020, 2021 and 2022.
According to the EPA, 70% of food waste was generated by food and drink businesses and 30% by households.
David Flynn, director of the EPA’s office of environmental sustainability, said: “As a nation, Ireland is wasting too much food – over one million meals a day – which is a significant resource and economic loss. With 70% of food waste generated by food and drink businesses across the supply chain, there is a clear obligation on this sector to focus on preventing food waste.
“Signing up to the EPA’s Food Waste Charter is a positive statement that your business is serious about taking action to measure and reduce food waste. Unavoidable food waste should be segregated for recycling. Waste collectors are required to provide an organic waste bin so all businesses should now have a 3-bin system in place.”
Costs
Warren Phelan, programme manager, EPA Circular Economy Programme, said: “Waste collectors are obliged to provide their household customers with a food waste collection service since January 2024. Greater coverage and rollout of the organic waste bin is key to segregating food waste and increasing recycling through composting and anaerobic digestion.
“Food waste costs households an average of €700 per year. Knowing the food you waste is the first step to prevent waste at home and the EPA’s Stop Food Waste programme provides lots of practical information to support householders.”
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