Food Waste and Food Banks: Key Issues for COP30

On Tuesday, February 18th, a thought-provoking panel followed by a reception was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, organized by The Global FoodBanking Network and Sesc Mesa Brasil. The event focused on the critical issue of food waste and the significant role of food banks in addressing this global challenge. The discussion underscored the importance of this topic in the context of COP30, which will be held later this year in Belém, Pará, Brazil.

A distinguished group of panelists, including Lisa Moon (CEO at GFN), Cristina Cuiabália (SESC Pantanal General Manager of the Social Environmental Polo), Gonzalo Muñoz Abogabir (United Nations High Level Climate Action Champion), and Gustavo Porpino (Embrapa Researcher), shared their insights on the intersection of food waste reduction and its social and environmental impacts. The discussion was moderated by Michael Oko (VP, Communications & Marketing at GFN). One of the key takeaways was how the Food Waste Reduction Pact serves to tackle two pressing issues simultaneously: the social problem of hunger and the environmental challenge of reducing methane emissions. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is produced when organic waste decomposes in landfills, making food waste a critical environmental issue as well.

The event was attended by Isabela Perazza, Director of GCCA Brasil, who joined the panelists and participants in discussing the crucial role food banks play in mitigating food insecurity while contributing to sustainability efforts by reducing waste.

The partnership between the Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA) and food banks was highlighted as a key aspect of addressing these challenges. GCCA is particularly proud of the work done by its members, who collaborate with food banks to support this important cause.

As the world prepares for COP30, the role of food banks in both social and environmental contexts will be a critical topic of discussion.

The event concluded with a sense of gratitude for the ongoing collaboration between various organizations dedicated to food security and environmental sustainability. The Global Cold Chain Alliance extends its appreciation to GFN and Sesc RJ for hosting the event and for their continued commitment to these important issues.