Sustainable Development Goals and The Role of Food Banks in Fighting Hunger and Food Waste in the State of Paraná-Brazil

Abstract

Objective: This article aims to analyze how food banks in the state of Paraná, Brazil, contribute to meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Theoretical framework: Reducing food waste is essential for reducing environmental, social and economic impacts and contributes directly to achieving SDGs 2 and 12. Food banks make a significant contribution to directing food that has no commercial value, but is suitable for human consumption, to the food and nutrition insecure population. Method: The methods used were descriptive, bibliographical and a multiple case study, with semi-structured interviews with food bank managers. Results and conclusion: The results show that SDGs 2 and 12 have been directly met. Specifically, in relation to targets 2.1 and 2.2, the practices seek to allocate food to people who are food and nutrition insecure (children, the elderly, hospitals and care homes). As for meeting target 12.3, there is a very intense movement by food banks to combat food waste, in order to increase food collection from donors, raise awareness among the population about the problems of food waste, support family farming with food purchases and, internally, develop minimum processing practices for food at an advanced stage of ripeness. Research implications: This study contributes by demonstrating the practices developed by food banks that come closer to the SDGs and favor the development of a fairer and more sustainable society. Originality/value: This study proposed bringing SDGs 2 and 12 closer to the role played by food banks, adding value to scientific knowledge.