The UAE has launched a pioneering effort to fight food waste, known as the National Food Loss Study. This landmark study involves 3,000 participants nationwide. It aims to reduce food loss and waste by 50% before 2030, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 12.3.
Ne’ma, the National Food Loss and Waste Initiative, leads this ambitious 18-month study. The initiative covers all seven Emirates, targeting households, businesses, and public sector entities. Crucially, the results will establish clear national benchmarks.
Moreover, insights gathered will help design practical, evidence-based interventions. These interventions will directly support efforts toward national food security and sustainability goals.
Khuloud Hassan Al Nuwais, Secretary General of ne’ma, highlighted the importance of the National Food Loss Study. “Tackling food loss and waste requires national collaboration,” she explained. “This study creates a unified approach to accurately measure actual food waste across the entire supply chain.”
Participants from households to businesses will contribute vital data starting September 2025. During a two-week survey, detailed measurements of household food waste will be gathered across all Emirates. These findings will create the baseline needed to track progress accurately.
Dr. Essam Sharaf Al Hashmi from Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) also emphasized the study’s importance. “ADAFSA plays a key role in promoting sustainability,” he said. “We’re uniting households and businesses to reduce food waste and protect our vital resources.”
Tadweer Group, another strategic partner, praised the study’s comprehensive approach. Abdulwahid Jumaa Freish said, “Tadweer is proud to support the National Food Loss Study. It complements our goal to divert organic waste from landfills and drive circular economy solutions.”
“We recognize the importance of data to drive meaningful change,” she stated. “Since 2023, we’ve collaborated with Tadweer and ne’ma to tackle waste and reduce landfill usage.”
Ultimately, this comprehensive national study aims to encourage sustainable practices across UAE society. The final report, due in early 2026, will inform future strategies.
