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Switzerland’s bold plan to slash food waste by 25% by changing habits

From kitchen scraps to community meals, one country’s fight against waste is saving food—and lives. Can a 25% cut become reality?

There are so many sitting in a chairs and eating food on tables and few people standing at one...
There are so many sitting in a chairs and eating food on tables and few people standing at one corner to serve food and behind that there is a photo frame with flowers and there is a door to access.

Switzerland’s bold plan to slash food waste by 25% by changing habits

Switzerland is stepping up efforts to cut food waste as part of a broader federal plan. The goal is to reduce avoidable waste by 25 percent in the coming years. So far, progress has been modest, with a nearly five percent drop already achieved.

Last year, rescued food reached 2.1 million people across the country. The organisation Foodsave now aims to expand its efforts and save even more in 2024. With 168 drop-off points, more donations could help those in need while reducing waste.

A third of all food waste in Switzerland happens in households. Officials stress that changing habits is key to making a real difference. Beyond practical measures, a shift in public attitudes is seen as essential. Food aid programmes, like 'Tischlein deck dich', also serve a social purpose. They provide meals while acting as community hubs for vulnerable groups. The initiative highlights how tackling waste can bring wider benefits. Authorities believe much more can be done. Untapped potential remains in both preventing waste and reaching additional people through donations.

The federal action plan sets a clear target, but success depends on public participation. Expanding food rescue operations and changing behaviours could help meet the 25 percent reduction goal. For now, the focus stays on scaling up efforts and raising awareness across the country.

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