Overview

The Food Waste (Reduction) Bill aims to significantly reduce food waste in the UK. It mandates targets for reducing food waste for individuals, businesses, and public bodies, particularly large supermarkets and food manufacturers, with reporting requirements and incentives to encourage compliance.

Description

This bill sets a target to halve per capita food waste in England by 2030, and seeks agreement on a UK-wide target. It requires the Secretary of State to create a food waste reduction strategy, including annual objectives and targets. Large supermarkets, manufacturers, and distributors must reduce their food waste by at least 30% by 2025 (from a 2016 baseline) and enter into agreements with food redistribution organizations to donate unsold food. These large businesses must also disclose their food waste levels and propose further 50% reduction by 2030. The bill defines "food waste" and "food waste reduction" through regulations, referencing established guidelines, excluding waste disposal methods. Annual reports on progress will be presented to Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending figures. However, the implementation of the strategy, including setting up schemes, consultation processes, and monitoring and reporting, will likely involve some government expenditure. The exact cost will depend on the details of the implemented schemes and regulations.

Groups Affected

• Individuals: Encouraged to reduce personal food waste.
• Businesses: Particularly large supermarkets, manufacturers, and distributors, who face mandatory waste reduction targets, reporting requirements, and obligations to donate excess food.
• Public bodies: Encouraged to reduce food waste.
• Food redistribution organizations: Will receive donated food from large businesses.
• Government: Responsible for setting targets, creating strategies, implementing schemes, monitoring compliance, and reporting to Parliament.

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