APEC leaders commit to reducing food waste by 2040.

In the context of the APEC 2024 Food Security Week, the leaders of the 21 economies that make up the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum have established an ambitious commitment to combat a problem that has reached alarming dimensions: food waste. The roadmap presented aims to drastically reduce food loss by the year 2040, marking a milestone not only in APEC's history but also in the global fight for food security. This agreement stands as a coordinated and conscious response to a problem that, despite being well-known, has been difficult to eradicate. According to Renato Reyes Tagle, Senior Official of Peru to APEC, this initiative is crucial, as the economies represented by APEC account for nearly 40% of global food production. The interconnectedness among member countries allows for the development of solutions tailored to the particularities of each economy, an aspect that Reyes Tagle considers fundamental for the success of this initiative. The situation is critical. Food loss throughout the supply chain does not discriminate between developed and developing nations. However, in the Asia-Pacific region, factors such as population growth, accelerated urbanization, and the effects of climate change have exacerbated this problem, posing a challenge that requires immediate and concerted attention. Reducing food waste not only aims to meet the need for access to safe and nutritious food but is also closely linked to environmental sustainability. The roadmap presented at APEC includes a series of concrete actions designed to address food loss from multiple angles. These measures focus not only on production and distribution but also promote education and awareness among consumers and producers. Training technicians and specialists in the field is one of the key strategies to ensure that the most advanced knowledge and technologies are accessible throughout the region. APEC's commitment also has the potential to generate significant economic benefits. By reducing food loss, costs associated with production and distribution could be lowered, which in turn may open new business opportunities in a sector that is often affected by inefficiencies. For many countries, this could mean not only economic relief but also an opportunity to redirect their economies towards more sustainable models. Furthermore, food security is intrinsically linked to the social and economic stability of nations. When access to sufficient and nutritious food is guaranteed, the quality of life for populations improves, and sustainable development is promoted. This holistic approach adopted by APEC is a fundamental step towards comprehensively addressing the food crisis facing the world. Discussions around reducing food waste also encompass the role of innovation and technology. APEC leaders have recognized that access to emerging technologies can be an important catalyst in the fight against waste. From monitoring and supply chain management systems to applications that optimize resource use, technology can make a significant difference in the efficiency of food processes. With the implementation of this roadmap, APEC positions itself as a leader in seeking solutions to global problems that require collective action. Collaboration between developed and emerging economies is not only a sign of solidarity but also a smart strategy for addressing the challenges of modernity. The commitment to reduce food loss represents an opportunity to strengthen international cooperation and promote the well-being of all involved nations. The positive impact of this initiative could be transformative, not only for APEC member countries but for the entire world. By joining efforts and resources, it is possible to move towards a future where access to safe and nutritious food is a guaranteed right for all, and where sustainability and efficiency are integral parts of the food production process. In this context, the joint action of APEC leaders could mark the beginning of a significant change towards a fairer and more responsible food system.