By Emeka Nwokocha
A non-governmental organization, Development Initiative for Community Impact (DICI), has unveiled expanded programmes to mark this year’s International Day of Zero Waste.
The initiative focuses on raising societal awareness about the environmental and resource impacts of consumer-level food waste.
In a statement issued by the Acting Executive Director of DICI, Mr. Tejiri Leo Jehian, the organization emphasized that the International Day of Zero Waste highlights the urgent need to shift toward sustainable consumption and production patterns.
Mr. Jehian noted that the 2026 global campaign centres on food waste under the slogan “Zero Waste Starts On Your Plate.”
“Food waste is not merely a matter of discarded leftovers; it is a multidimensional crisis,” Mr. Leo Jehian stated.
“Data shows that about 19% of the global total food available to consumers is wasted each year. This inefficiency carries a staggering environmental footprint, causing significant harm to the ecosystem. Wasted food accounts for approximately 8–10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, primarily due to methane released when organic waste decomposes in landfills. In the same vein, the water, land, energy, and labour invested in producing that food are squandered, exacerbating resource scarcity and undermining climate resilience.”
The Ag. M.D, in his statement, further noted that while food waste occurs across the entire supply chain, households and individual consumers are responsible for a significant share, making consumer behaviour a critical leverage point for change.
“The 2026 theme recognizes that the journey toward zero waste must begin in our kitchens, on our plates, and in our daily choices,” he added.
To translate awareness into action, DICI has organized a dedicated webinar forum designed to connect individuals, communities, and organizations with practical strategies, policy insights, and collaborative solutions.
According to him, the overarching goal of the event is to inspire and equip participants with the knowledge, tools, and motivation to reduce food waste at the consumer level, thereby contributing to climate mitigation and the broader zero-waste movement.
He further added that “the event would raise awareness of the environmental and resource impacts of consumer-level food waste, also showcasing practical, actionable strategies for reducing food waste that aligns with the slogan, “Zero waste starts on your plate.”
Mr. Leo noted that the International Day of Zero Waste 2026 serves as a call to action for individuals, businesses, and governments to prioritize reduction strategies, encouraging consumers to embrace mindful purchasing, proper storage, and composting.
