People could produce more food than they consumed, use it in times when crops failed, or trade it for other goods thanks to agriculture. Food surpluses allowed people to work in jobs other than farming. Food waste, on the other hand, is a significant global environmental and social issue. According to the United Nations Environment Programme's food waste index study, Indian households squander 68,760,163 tonnes of food annually, or roughly 50 kg per person. These losses happen on kitchen tables, in households, along the supply chain, and as a result of inadequate refrigeration and cold storage facilities. Additionally, they happen during marketing, storage, and shipping. Food waste is a negligent practice that contributes to the garbage load, straining the waste management system and ultimately ending up in landfills and waterways. In India, women have traditionally handled household waste as part of their daily duties, and studies have indicated that they are particularly interested in waste management services and domestic waste management. Women do a wide range of trash-related tasks and are the main household consumers of waste management services. Waste management operations can become more successful, efficient, sustainable, and equitable by acknowledging their skills and expertise. One area where women can take the lead is in the reduction and separation of household waste. This strategy can aid in lowering total waste through recycling, composting, and waste reduction. Supporting and promoting women's agency, leadership, and voices in waste management is also essential.

Food, Women, Waste