The fifth observance will highlight the critical need for financing to bolster efforts to reduce food loss and waste, contribute to achieving climate goals and advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

It is the time of the year again when families and friends get together and celebrate the holiday season. A time to give thanks and share our blessings with one another. A time for traditional festivities and joyful celebrations.

On behalf of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, the Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy, Antonio Tajani, announced today the UN Food Systems Stocktaking Moment, will take place in Rome, Italy from 24 – 26 July 2023, at the premises of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

Join us for an overview presentation on the "Technical Platform on the Measurement and Reduction of Food Loss and Waste (TPFLW) tools, methodologies, and resources to support work and efforts to measure and reduce food loss and waste".

On the occasion of the 2021 virtual global event a clear call to action was made to the public (national or local authorities) and private (businesses, including producers) sectors and individuals. They were called to prioritize actions and move ahead with innovation to reduce food loss and waste and contribute to restoring and building better agri-food systems.

The UN General Assembly designated 2021 the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables (IYFV). This is being launched officially on 15th December. Stay tuned! we will communicate soon details for participation.

The IYFV 2021 is a unique opportunity to raise awareness on the important role of fruits and vegetables in human nutrition, food security and health and as well in achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Speaking at the event the FAO Director-General described the initiative as "a unique opportunity to raise global awareness". He noted that the COVID-19 pandemic had challenged people to find new ways of fighting hunger and malnutrition and said IYFV would highlight the role of digital technologies in improving nutrition and market opportunities.

The Agritechnica Asia and Horti Asia digital talk about Post-Harvest Losses, which took place in late November, addressed the avoidance of losses by improved process management and handling of crops as well as opportunities to fund collaborative projects to introduce new technologies.

A Special Issue on Food loss and waste based on several SOFA 2019 findings articles is available for consultation.