The Social and Economic Survey Research Institute (SESRI) at Qatar University (QU), in collaboration with the Ministry of Municipality – Food Security Department, organized a panel discussion titled “Estimating the Food Loss and Waste Index: Towards Achieving Food Security and Sustainability". The event took place at QU's Library Building and was part of the Baseline Study on Food Loss and Waste Estimation in Qatar 2024, a research project conducted by SESRI in cooperation with the Ministry of Municipality. The initiative aligns with QU's research priorities and Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritizes food security and sustainable development.
The panel discussion aimed to provide a scientific and practical approach to measuring food loss and waste in Qatar. It explored methodologies for assessing food waste at various stages, including production, transportation, storage, and consumption, while also reviewing regional and international experiences in this field.
A distinguished group of experts and researchers from academic, governmental, and international institutions participated in the discussion, including representatives from QU, the Ministry of Municipality, the Arab Organization for Agricultural Development, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the Saudi General Food Security Authority (GFSA). Participants presented the latest scientific methods for estimating the Food Loss and Waste Index and reviewed Saudi Arabia's experience in calculating food loss. The session also highlighted successful initiatives in Qatar aimed at reducing food waste, such as promoting community awareness programs and encouraging more sustainable consumption patterns.
The discussion covered several key topics, including the distinction between food loss and food waste and its importance in policy-making, methodologies for measuring food loss, the role of modern technologies in data analysis, and the economic, environmental, and social impacts of food waste in Qatar. Strategies for minimizing food loss across supply and distribution chains were also examined. Additionally, the session emphasized the role of individuals and institutions in reducing food loss through awareness and sustainable practices, while showcasing successful governmental and corporate efforts in fostering partnerships for innovative solutions.
Participants emphasized that enhancing food security in Qatar requires a comprehensive approach that integrates scientific research, practical policies, and cross-sector collaboration. Through such discussions, SESRI at QU seeks to provide an effective platform for dialogue, bringing together decision-makers, experts, and academics to drive change toward a more sustainable and efficient food system.
The event concluded with an interactive discussion session, where participants raised key questions about the challenges facing food waste reduction strategies in Qatar and the region. The discussions resulted in several recommendations, including strengthening field research on food loss and waste, developing clear national policies with regulatory and financial incentives, expanding cooperation between government entities and the private sector to launch innovative projects, enhancing awareness campaigns, encouraging more sustainable consumption habits, and utilizing smart technologies for effective monitoring and analysis of food loss.