Istanbul: Organic waste generated by food loss and waste is driving greenhouse gas emissions and accelerating global warming, experts said, urging for awareness and action at a global scale. Speaking to Anadolu at the Zero Waste Forum 2026, Ana Catalina Suarez Pena, senior director of strategy and innovation at the Global FoodBanking Network, assessed food banking and food waste. She noted that around 20% of global methane emissions come from organic waste, and that approximately 77% of organic waste is food waste.
According to Anadolu Agency, Suarez highlighted the paradox of food waste occurring alongside global food insecurity, where 2.5 billion people are affected. Food banks play a crucial role in addressing this issue by connecting the conversations around waste and hunger. She emphasized the increasing importance of food systems in the context of climate discussions, noting their inclusion in COP agendas since COP28.
Suarez explained that climate-related disasters such as floods, extreme rainfall, and wildfires impact food stability, making it essential to discuss how food is produced and distributed under current conditions. She mentioned that the zero waste package at COP31 will address ways to prevent food waste, aiming for it to become a significant part of the negotiations with incentives and a clear agenda.
Highlighting the environmental benefits, Suarez stated that preventing 1 ton of food waste can prevent 2.6 tons of CO2 emissions. She stressed that reducing organic waste meets climate commitments quickly while improving food security. Solutions to food insecurity and food waste already exist, and efforts should focus on promoting and scaling these effective practices.
Michael Oko, vice president of communications and marketing at the Global FoodBanking Network, added that preventing food waste also curtails methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. Redirecting food to people or composting can significantly reduce emissions contributing to global warming. He praised Trkiye's prioritization of food waste as a powerful step in combating climate change.