6. Improved forecasting to reduce waste and
usage of resources
The industry should improve collaborative forecasting in order
to reduce the amount of waste that comes from spoilage and
product returns and increase the accuracy of inventory flow.
This requires new ways of managing food loss and waste, with
clear incentives needed for all industry stakeholders.
Considerations include educational programs focused on
sustainability for consumers and companies, increased use of
product identification like RFID to improve production planning
and management in the stores, and greater sourcing from
local producers.
7. Collaboration with governments and NGOs on
regulations
Regulations are closely connected with environmental
constraints, but there is a lack of mutual understanding
between companies and governments. Governments often
do not know the motivations and actions of companies, and
companies tend to be taken by surprise when new regulations
are imposed. This needs to change, with companies
participating in regulation development together with
governments and NGOs.
But this will require a common vision and language – and
strong leadership at all involved stakeholders. It also demands
significantly faster implementation of “non-greenwashing”
voluntary initiatives to avoid government regulations, and
potentially the establishment of platforms to facilitate the
definition and implementation of regulations that affect the
industry.