Net zero through food loss and waste reduction: ISO 20001 adoption potential among Park Royal food businesses

Abstract

Food loss and waste (FLW) accounts for up to 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Tackling FLW offers food manufacturing businesses a path to both net zero compliance and greater operational efficiency. The upcoming ISO 20001 Food Loss and Waste Minimisation Management System standard provides a timely framework for businesses to institutionalise food waste reduction. This project aims to support Park Royal food businesses in their transition to net zero by evaluating the adoption potential of the ISO 20001 standard currently under development.

Description

The official consultation of the ISO 20001 DIS closed in December 2025. This project is gathering independent industry feedback to present to the ISO Technical Committee in March 2026. Through surveys, interviews, and workshops, the project will:

• Evaluate organisational readiness for a systematic approach to FLW minimisation among Park Royal food businesses as a pathway to net zero.
• Identify barriers and enablers for adoption of the forthcoming ISO 20001
• Channel feedback from local businesses into recommendations for the ISO Technical Committee.
• Develop practical guidance that positions Park Royal food businesses for early adoption of ISO 20001, integrating FLW management into their net zero action plans.