OVAM | New campaign against food waste in Flanders

On the International Day Against Food Waste, observed annually on 29 September, OVAM is launching a campaign in September and October to raise awareness among Flemish citizens. Through practical tips (like better meal planning, avoiding overbuying, and cooking with leftovers) OVAM aims to help households waste less food. The campaign highlights that nearly 40% of household waste still consists of food, over half of which remains edible.

Alongside awareness efforts, policy measures are also taking shape. During Belgium’s presidency of the EU Council, OVAM played a key role in negotiations that led to binding European targets now in force: a 10% reduction in food processing, and a 30% reduction in retail, food services, and households by 2030. OVAM is working with all stakeholders to ensure Flanders meets these goals, including stricter rules that prohibit households from discarding surplus food in residual waste. 

Source: https://ovam.vlaanderen.be (in Dutch)