European Stage

From Waste to Abundance: Transforming Hong Kong’s Food System

Day 1 : 12:10 – 12:30

We will explore a broad vision for reshaping Hong Kong’s food system – one that transforms food waste from an environmental and economic burden into a catalyst for abundance. Today, Hong Kong residents generate one of the highest levels of food waste per capita in the world. But this challenge also presents a unique opportunity. By targeting inefficiencies across the food value chain, from production to consumption, food waste solutions in existence. Drawing inspiration from global best practices and local innovations, this keynote will outline a roadmap for transitioning Hong Kong towards a circular, regenerative food system – one that nourishes its people, sustains its environment, and generates prosperity for all. Together, we can turn the tide on food waste, moving our city, and paving the way for a truly sustainable future.

Learnings

  • Exposing the True Cost of Food Waste in Hong Kong.
  • Unlocking the Potential of Food Waste.
  • A Roadmap for a Sustainable Food Future.

Post-event Actions

  • Concrete strategies for reducing food waste at the household and business level.
  • Awareness of opportunities to support or get involved in food waste initiatives.
  • Commitment to advocate for systemic change and collaborate across stakeholder groups.

 

Speakers

Carla Martinesi

Chomp Limited

Founder & CEO

Carla is the Founder of CHOMP, Hong Kong’s award-winning food-saving app.
Having grown up between Hong Kong and Switzerland and being surrounded by nature, she’s always had a strong belief in protecting the environment and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. With a background in F&B, she created CHOMP to make a difference in the world by addressing one of the most critical global issues: food waste.
The app reduces food waste by connecting F&B businesses, like restaurants and cafes, with customers who can purchase discounted meal boxes containing unsold items. Since 2021, they’ve saved over 20,000 kg of edible food from going to landfills, partnering with 250+ establishments, including Maxim’s, Shangri-La, and more.
Carla is also a Forbes 30 Under 30 and Tatler’s Gen T. recipient for her work with CHOMP and continues to spread awareness about the importance of tackling food waste to help our planet.

My Sustainability Goals for 2024:

  1. **Achieve Zero Food Waste:** Implement comprehensive food waste recycling programs across all districts, ensuring that all edible and non-edible food waste is properly managed and repurposed, thus minimizing the amount sent to landfills.
  2. **Attain Carbon Neutrality by 2050:** Develop and execute a robust climate action plan that includes increasing the use of renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable transportation options to significantly reduce carbon emissions.

Supported by