How much food waste does Spain aim to cut?

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Spain Aims to Halve Food Waste by 2030

Spain's government has adopted a draft bill targeting a significant reduction in food waste, aligning with broader international objectives. The legislation seeks to halve the amount of food and drink discarded annually by both businesses and consumers by the year 2030. This ambition is consistent with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and the European Union's commitment to similar targets within the same timeframe.
Current Scale of Food Waste in Spain

Currently, Spain discards approximately 1.3 million tonnes of food and drink each year. This level of waste translates into a substantial financial burden, with an estimated loss of €250 per person annually. The government views this wastefulness as a significant issue with environmental implications and a moral concern, particularly in the context of global hunger.
Legislative Measures to Curb Waste

The proposed bill introduces a framework of fines for businesses, including restaurants and supermarkets, that fail to implement waste reduction strategies. These measures mandate that businesses find ways to redistribute unsold but edible food to non-governmental organisations and food banks. For produce that is no longer suitable for sale, such as overripe fruit, the legislation encourages its repurposing into products like jams and juices, or its use for animal feed or composting if unfit for human consumption.
Promoting Consumer Awareness and Action

Beyond business-focused regulations, the bill also aims to influence consumer behaviour. Restaurants will be required to offer customers free containers, commonly known as "doggy bags," to take home uneaten food, a practice not yet widespread in Spain. While no sanctions are planned for private households, educational campaigns will be launched to raise public awareness about the importance of reducing food waste. The overall intent of the law is to foster a greater consciousness regarding wastefulness throughout the food supply chain, rather than to impose an overly interventionist regulatory approach.

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How much food waste does Spain aim to cut?

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