Exploring sustainable approaches to mitigate food waste and reduce environmental impact at the Ortomercato wholesale fruits and vegetables market in Milan

Food waste has become a critical global issue, with around 14% of the world's food lost between harvest and consumption. Despite sufficient global food production, over 3.1 billion people still struggle to access adequate nutrition, with 690 million suffering from chronic hunger (FAO, 2022). This waste incurs significant annual costs for the environment, economy, and society. Addressing food losses and waste is essential for sustainability. While hunger is prevalent in low-income countries, food waste is more significant in middle and high-income countries, although both can coexist within regions. Policies and technological innovations target supply chain efficiency and waste reduction, including circular economy approaches and food redistribution initiatives. However, challenges such as short shelf life and logistical barriers exist. Comprehensive studies, including life cycle assessments, are needed to fully understand the environmental impact of food donation and waste management. This case study aims to quantify and evaluate the environmental impacts of managing food surpluses within the Milan Wholesale Fruits and Vegetables Market through LCA analysis. The study underscores the importance of organized interventions and objective measurement methods to address food waste while ensuring food security for vulnerable populations.