Measurement
Matters
To reduce food waste effectively, we need to improve monitoring, measurement and reporting of food waste across all sectors of the food supply chain.
Driving food waste reduction across the food value chain will require food sector businesses to commit to measuring and reporting food waste in a clear and consistent manner. Improved monitoring of food waste levels will highlight the costs of mismanagement of food, and in turn, identify and prompt action by business operators to reduce food waste.
The reporting of food waste data in a common format, using the EPA’s national standard methodologies, will be used to collectively track progress of the Charter and support Ireland’s EU reporting requirements.
At a business level, the Food Waste Measurement Protocol (food & drink manufacturing) and Pathway (food service) are tools for you based on international best practice but tailored to the needs and day-to-day workings of Irish businesses. Throughout the development process we engaged sectoral representatives and businesses to discuss the thought process behind these and engage with them to ensure sectoral input was included.
Food & Drink Manufacturing
The EPA has developed the Food Waste Measurement Pathway to help food service businesses in the hospitality sector measure their food waste. Measuring food waste doesn’t have to be difficult, just use the information you already have to easily track your food waste. The guide will show you how using your data, within the Pathway Template, can give you information on food waste volumes produced, the cost for your business, and how well your waste management system is working.
Related Resources
Make your pledge today
Join other Irish food and drink sector businesses and pledge your commitment to reduce food waste now.
