Zero waste approaches in high-impact sectors (food systems, urban waste management)

Food waste is one of the most avoidable sources of municipal solid waste, with significant implications for climate change, resource efficiency, and food security. On the International Day of Zero Waste, UNEP calls for accelerated action to prevent food waste at source, particularly in cities, where majority of waste is generated and managed, as part of the Food Waste Breakthrough. For Türkiye, rapid urbanisation, dynamic food systems, and growing municipal waste streams intersect with food waste where prevention represents a high-impact opportunity to advance circular economy goals, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and strengthen urban sustainability.