July 11th, 2025
IFood waste remains one of the most pressing sustainability challenges of our time — with over 1 billion tonnes of food lost or wasted annually, resulting in a global loss of USD 1 trillion and massive environmental consequences, including unnecessary greenhouse gas emissions, water and land use, and growing food insecurity.
This new Best Practice highlights how local governments are uniquely positioned to drive impactful change across the food system. Focusing on the cities of Copenhagen (Denmark), Halifax (Canada), and Cincinnati (USA), the document showcases diverse strategies that reduce food waste, promote climate-friendly diets, and enhance food education and governance. From sustainable public procurement policies and food literacy campaigns to composting pilots and collaborative food networks, these examples offer practical, replicable models for other cities around the world.
Developed as part of the IURC North America initiative, this Best Practice reflects the power of shared learning, open digital tools, and peer-to-peer cooperation between cities across the European Union and North America. It also supports the achievement of UN Sustainable Development Goal 12.3: halving food waste by 2030.
🔗 Read the Best Practice and get inspired: