The issue of food waste is a complex one, affecting millions of Americans and the environment. However, it is not a problem that can be tackled alone. To combat this issue, a bipartisan group of U.S. Representatives, led by Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.), have relaunched the Congressional Food Recovery Caucus. ### Focus on Food Waste Prevention
The caucus is focused on educating Congressional members and staff, supporting federal initiatives, and promoting successful food recovery efforts nationwide. This bipartisan effort aims to tackle food loss and waste across the nation, making it a crucial step towards creating a more sustainable food system. #### Key Principles
* To educate Congressional members and staff about the issue of food waste and its impacts on the environment and society. * To support federal initiatives and programs aimed at reducing food waste. * To promote successful food recovery efforts nationwide. #### Successful Food Recovery Efforts
The caucus is built on the success of the 2018 Farm Bill, which included provisions to:
* Establish a full-time food loss and waste liaison at the USDA. * Launch a composting and food waste reduction pilot program. * Include the Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP) to reduce on-farm waste. These initiatives demonstrate the importance of a bipartisan approach to addressing food waste. #### Food Waste Prevention Week
In conjunction with the relaunch of the caucus, National Food Waste Prevention Week is being celebrated across the nation. This week-long event aims to raise awareness about the issue of food waste, educate the public, and promote action to prevent waste. #### Real-Life Examples
* In Portland, Maine, Wayside Food Programs has been combating food waste for over 35 years. The organization has saved thousands of pounds of food from local grocers and donates it to food pantries and other programs. * Elaine Fiore, co-founder of Food Waste Prevention Week, noted the significance of the initiative. “The cool thing about it is it creates a space for people who may not be working together to all come together, raise awareness, learn from each other, take action on ways we can prevent wasting food.”
#### Getting Involved
For those interested in donating foods to Wayside Food Programs or learning more about Food Waste Prevention Week, visit their websites for more information. ### Conclusion
Food waste prevention is a complex issue that requires a bipartisan approach. The relaunch of the Congressional Food Recovery Caucus and National Food Waste Prevention Week demonstrate the importance of collaboration and education in addressing this issue. By working together, we can create a more sustainable food system and reduce food waste nationwide.