While millions of people around the world lack access to adequate food, one-third of all food produced globally is wasted every year. As an environmental engineer and chef, I believe reducing this waste is crucial to slowing climate change and combating hunger. The United Nations’ Zero Hunger goal advocates for every individual’s right to healthy, sustainable, and quality food, guiding us in this critical endeavor.

Reducing food waste is a vital step toward achieving a sustainable food system. Every wasted bite is not only a lost meal for those who go hungry but also a needless consumption of the planet’s natural resources. The water, energy, and land used in agriculture are wasted alongside the discarded food, contributing to environmental degradation. Reducing food waste also decreases our carbon footprint, making it a significant measure in the fight against climate change.

My experience in the culinary field demonstrates that a sustainable kitchen culture is achievable and that creative solutions can be developed to support it. For instance, using the leftover parts of vegetables and fruits in sauces, soups, or stews, or designing daily menus to minimize waste, can make a substantial difference not only in professional kitchens but also in everyday lives. In Turkey, where a cuisine based on seasonal vegetables is prevalent, we see a valuable example of climate-friendly cooking practices.

Ensuring equal access

Additionally, equality in food access is indispensable in building a sustainable food system. Guaranteeing that every individual has access to sufficient, healthy, and safe food is not just a basic human right but also necessary for a sustainable societal structure. Supporting local food producers increases food accessibility and contributes to the conservation of natural resources.

It is essential that everyone in the food industry, from chefs and engineers to producers and consumers, uphold this responsibility to make the Zero Hunger goal more realistic and attainable. This change, achieved through collaboration, will secure environmental and societal sustainability and ensure a healthy future for the next generations.

As an environmental engineer and chef, I am dedicated to doing my part to reach the Zero Hunger goal by reducing kitchen waste, supporting eco-friendly agricultural techniques, and developing sustainable recipes. Taking steps that prioritize both nature and humanity in our journey towards a sustainable food system will help us build a more livable world for all.

This perspective provides a powerful voice aligned with the Zero Hunger goal, highlighting the importance of both environmental and social impact.

What kind of efforts are being made worldwide for the zero hunger goal?

Many important initiatives and projects are being implemented globally to achieve the Zero Hunger goal. The United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals aim to eradicate hunger and ensure that everyone has access to adequate, nutritious food. Here are some key projects and efforts being carried out within this framework:

Supporting agricultural technologies and innovative solutions

  • Digitization and smart agriculture: digital technologies in agriculture (e.g., artificial intelligence, drones, sensors) are being used to enable more efficient and cost-effective production. For example, smart irrigation systems optimize water use, helping increase food production.

  • Vertical farming and indoor systems: in urban areas and limited agricultural spaces, vertical farming techniques allow for higher yields on smaller plots of land. Vertical farming reduces water consumption while maximizing productivity.

Reducing food waste

  • Food banking: food banks provide an important method of addressing hunger. Excess food that is safe and nutritious is collected and distributed to those in need.

  • Food rescue programs: some countries have systems for collecting surplus food from restaurants and supermarkets and distributing it to families in need. These programs ensure that food reaches people instead of being wasted.

Sustainable agriculture and farmer support programs

  • Farmer education and support programs: small-scale farmers are trained in agricultural sustainability, soil health, and productivity enhancement. They are taught cost-effective and eco-friendly methods to increase production capacity.

  • Supporting local food producers: local production is supported to strengthen local economies and reduce the cost of food access.

Combating climate change

  • Climate-resilient agriculture: climate-resilient seeds and plants are developed to lessen the impact of global warming on agricultural production. These seeds are more resistant to natural disasters such as drought or floods.

  • Soil management: agricultural practices that prevent erosion and protect soil health are promoted, ensuring both the preservation of farmland and sustainable production.

Raising awareness and education in communities

  • Nutrition and food security education: education programs on food security, reducing waste, and healthy eating are organized, especially for children and young people, creating awareness of the value of food.

  • Community gardens: community gardens encourage people to grow their food locally, supporting food security and strengthening community bonds.

UN and NGO initiatives

  • World food programme (WFP) efforts: WFP provides food aid to malnourished children, pregnant women, and low-income families in various regions. They also organize school meal programs in these areas to ensure children have access to healthy food.

  • Food and agriculture organization (FAO) projects: FAO provides training, guidance, and resources to increase sustainability in food production, supporting small-scale farmers to help sustain local production.

Social assistance programs and partnerships

  • Public-private partnerships: corporations, governments, and NGOs collaborate to improve food access. For example, large food companies can offer discounts or distributions to reach low-income families.

International finance and aid funds

  • Food security funds: organizations like the World Bank and the IMF create funds to improve food security and increase agricultural production in developing countries. These funds enable the implementation of agricultural projects.

Such efforts contribute to the fight against hunger and the goal of zero hunger on both local and international scales. By reducing food waste, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and raising public awareness, it is possible to establish a healthier and fairer food system.