More than a billion meals are wasted around the world every day, while rotting food releases methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) warns that food loss and waste are also putting pressure on food security, forests and sustainable food systems, at a time when millions of people still go hungry.
As the world looks for quick and practical ways to bring down temperatures, the focus has turned to food.
In June 2026 the UN Secretary-General issued a Call to Action on Methane, calling for action across three sectors: fossil fuels, agriculture and waste.
In the waste sector, the call emphasises the need to reduce organic waste, divert organics from landfills, end open dumping and build more circular, low-methane waste systems.
–ChannelAfrica–
