Last Thursday, the Chair of Economy of the Common Good, in collaboration with the Chair of Business and Humanismorganized a major event at the University of Valencia's Botanical Garden under the theme "A Future Without Waste." The event brought together companies, organizations, experts, and consumers, who discussed and shared experiences on the crucial importance of food waste management and the role all stakeholders must play in achieving sustainable development.
The meeting brought together various sectors of society that have an active interest in waste reduction. From companies such as Consumer and Watch over you, to associations or entities such as HOSBEC and Help a Family, everyone found a space to discuss and learn about how efficient waste management policies can positively impact the economy and the environment.
A commitment to change from a business and social perspective
One of the highlights of the day was the presentation by sustainability experts, who highlighted how companies can be transformative agents in the fight against waste. The speakers emphasized the need for an effective partnership between companies and consumers, where both are committed to reducing their ecological footprint, and how this vision can translate into a competitive advantage in a world increasingly committed to preserving the planet. Furthermore, the question of whether it is possible to avoid waste was raised, given that figures show that each person currently wastes a third of the food they consume.
For its part, the Cátedra de Empresa y Humanismo, represented by Thomas Gonzalez-Cruz, emphasized the role that academic institutions must play in fostering critical awareness about sustainability. Through education and research, the goal is to promote structural changes in current business models, fostering the development of a business community guided by principles of social justice and environmental respect.
Collective commitment to a cleaner future
These types of meetings make it clear that the future depends on a joint commitment from the hospitality and catering sector. Collaboration between businesses, educational institutions, consumers, and governments is vital to achieving change that enables true sustainable development. The "A Future Without Waste" conference was another step in that direction, creating a space for reflection, learning, and action that will continue to promote innovative and efficient solutions for waste management.
