Food waste has a significant economic, environmental and social cost. Reducing food waste is critical to the environment of Hong Kong and the well-being of its citizens. Food packaging is a simple yet effective solution to reduce the amount of food waste. Packaging can also be used to extend the shelf life of food so it is available for consumption for much longer and thus, reducing waste. Not many consumers know the difference between 'use-by' and 'best-before' dates on food packaging, with a resulting impact on food being needlessly thrown away. To realize the vision of a truly sustainable world, we need to transform the way we produce and consume our natural resources. We can all play a useful part to reduce food waste for the benefit of our community. 

by Tim Ooi, Chief Operating Officer, Paper Products Division, Asia Pulp & Paper Group