Waste Not, Want Not

Data shows that 17 to 18 million tons of food are wasted in China annually, enough to feed 50 million people each year. A draft law on curbing food waste was submitted to China’s top legislature for a first review in December 2020. It aims to encourage society to foster more frugal lifestyles and make a long-term legal framework on food consumption. Government agencies and State-owned enterprises nationwide are required to scrutinize banquets held using public funds. Restaurants are encouraged to serve smaller portions. A nationwide “Clean Your Plate” campaign is gaining momentum, and the draft law is essential to fostering a resource-conserving and environmentally friendly society.