Viet Nam, Denmark join hands to recycle food waste

On the afternoon of November 12, in Ho Chi Minh City, the Viet Nam Food Bank Network, in coordination with the Embassy of Denmark in Viet Nam and the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, officially launched the handbook “Guidelines for Recycling Food Waste.”

The event marks a significant milestone within the framework of the Viet Nam–Denmark Green Strategic Partnership, aiming to reduce food waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and promote the circular economy model, contributing to achieving the net-zero emissions commitment by 2050.

The handbook consists of five chapters that provide detailed instructions for classifying, reusing, and recycling leftover food, while also introducing practical models from the Viet Nam Food Bank Network. The publication is developed in line with international standards and Denmark's experience — a pioneer in waste management and green economic development — and is adapted to Viet Nam’s conditions.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, up to 1.3 billion tons of food are lost or wasted each year, equivalent to one-third of global production. Viet Nam is also facing this issue, as food waste volumes in urban areas and industrial zones are increasing rapidly, putting great pressure on the environment and waste treatment systems.

Ms. Sanne Høj Andrén, Counsellor for Food and Agriculture at the Danish Embassy in Viet Nam, said: “Denmark and Viet Nam share the same goals for sustainable development. We want to share experiences and best practices in food-waste management to create positive change starting at the community level.”

In addition to releasing the handbook, the Viet Nam Food Bank Network is also implementing various green models such as recycling organic by-products into fertilizer, student community kitchens, and supply-chain links between farms and enterprises to rescue surplus agricultural products.

Mr. Nguyen Tuan Khoi, Founding Chairman of the Viet Nam Food Bank Network, emphasized: “This handbook not only provides methods but also inspires each individual to become more self-aware, reduce food waste, and protect the planet together.”

Additionally, this initiative contributes to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrates the long-term commitment of Viet Nam and Denmark to a green and sustainable future.