This builds on previous studies and recent data collected by Wrap to derive estimates of waste generated during key stages of the UK food and drink supply chain, as well as linking this with household waste.
It also identifies areas of greatest opportunity for cost savings, improved resource efficiency and future interventions.
These estimated figures are based on four focus areas of the supply chain:
It’s important to understand waste at all points in all four areas of the chain to identify the causes and solutions. This is because waste may arise at one point in the chain, but the solution might rest further up or downstream.
When combined, household and manufacturing represent the greatest opportunity for efficiency that will deliver commercial as well as environment benefits. Here are examples of how those savings can be achieved:
Richard Swannell, Wrap director of retail and organics: “Thinking needs to go beyond the boundary of an individual site or an individual company. An integrated approach through the chain could really help reduce costs and waste, resulting in more efficient management of resources from their point of production through to their point of consumption.
“Making these changes is challenging and achievable given the sector’s strong track record for innovation and implementing change. Focusing on the entire supply chain waste will deliver tangible commercial and environmental benefits – reducing costs, waste and greenhouse gas emissions.”
Source: Wrap
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