Reducing food loss and waste in aquatic value chains

Multidimensional approach

Reducing food loss and waste (FLW) is increasingly recognized as an essential strategy for several reasons. It can significantly decrease production costs, enhance the overall efficiency of food systems, bolster food security and nutritional outcomes, and contribute to environmental sustainability. Research shows that adopting a comprehensive approach that involves multiple disciplines and stakeholders is likely to be more effective in addressing FLW issues and achieving sustainable results.

The multidimensional solutions (MDS) approach encompasses and combines interventions that link policy, application of appropriate technology, skills and knowledge, services and infrastructure, regulatory environment, social and gender equity, good linkages to and knowledge of markets. Guidance for practitioners wishing to adopt this approach can be found in the Voluntary Code of Conduct for Food Loss and Waste Reduction.

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Multidimensional solutions in action

The Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad) provided funding for a three-year project (2021–2023), known as the Responsible Use of Fisheries and Aquaculture Resources for Sustainable Development. Under Component 5, the project enhanced the sustainable utilization of fisheries and aquaculture products and its contribution to livelihoods and food security through the application of multidimensional solutions to reduce FLW in aquatic value chains. Through the activities proposed, the project contributed to addressing the knowledge gap on reducing and preventing FLW.