Food waste has become a pressing global issue, with staggering statistics revealing the extent of the problem. In the U.S., between 38% and 40% of the total food supply goes to waste, amounting to a market value of approximately $444 billion. Similarly, the EU generates over 58 million tonnes of food waste annually, valued at 132 billion Euros. Globally, more than one-third of all food produced is wasted, contributing significantly to human-caused greenhouse gas emissions.
Denali, a prominent waste-repurposing firm in the U.S., is actively addressing this challenge by recycling billions of pounds of food waste and organic materials each year. The company collaborates with major grocers like Walmart and Kroger, as well as smaller food delivery services, to repurpose food waste into compost, high-quality animal feed, biodiesel, and other raw materials.
Denali's CEO emphasizes the importance of transitioning to a circular economy, where waste reduction and recycling not only benefit the environment but also make financial sense for businesses. By repurposing waste from food manufacturers as fertilizer substitutes and converting restaurants' cooking oil into biodiesel, Denali is demonstrating the economic viability of sustainable practices.
Furthermore, Denali's innovative solutions extend beyond traditional partnerships to include commercial and residential composting services, hospitality venues, and sports stadiums. The company played a crucial role in diverting waste from the Super Bowl away from landfills, showcasing the potential for large-scale events to embrace sustainable waste management practices.
Looking ahead, Denali remains committed to exploring emerging technologies and trends in waste management, such as advancements in anaerobic digestion and the development of new market products for organic waste. The company's dedication to reducing waste and promoting sustainability reflects a broader shift towards circular production that respects nature while driving business growth.
As the world strives to achieve the UN's Sustainable Development Agenda goal of halving global food waste by 2030, Denali stands as a beacon of hope in the fight against food waste. Through its efforts to repurpose waste and foster a more sustainable food system, Denali is paving the way for a greener, more efficient future.
