With about one-third of all food produced globally going to waste, the environmental consequences are profound, particularly in terms of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Methane, a potent greenhouse gas released during the decomposition of organic waste in landfills, plays a significant role in accelerating global warming. Diverting food waste from landfills can significantly mitigate these methane emissions, which helps achieve climate goals while putting food in the mouths of millions. Investing in efforts to reduce food waste — and the food banks that lead them — can clearly yield substantial economic, social, and environmental benefits, which is why it has rapidly emerged as a pivotal strategy in the context of climate finance.
This paper provides a detailed explanation of carbon market mechanisms, financing opportunities, and regional implementation strategies.
