EnvironmentGS-III· 1 min read
Tool to Estimate Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Food Waste Developed
Why in news?
WRI India has developed a tool to help cities, businesses, and communities quantify greenhouse gas emissions from food waste across its management chain, addressing a critical environmental concern.
Key points
- The tool estimates emissions from collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal of food waste.
- It identifies opportunities for emission reduction through source reduction and redistribution.
- India generated an estimated 62 million tonnes of municipal solid waste in 2022-23, projected to rise significantly.
- Food waste alone emitted ~106.62 million tonnes of CO₂e in 2023.
- Addresses the lack of a dedicated framework for estimating food waste's climate impact.
Background & context
Food waste is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, primarily methane, from landfills. Effective waste management is crucial for climate change mitigation. India's Solid Waste Management Rules promote waste segregation, but specific focus on food waste emissions is emerging.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The tool is an Excel-based application designed for urban local bodies, businesses, and resident welfare associations.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper 3: Environmental Conservation, Pollution Control, Climate Change (Waste Management, GHG emissions).