Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry urged to tackle food loss and waste in the seafood sector as a cornerstone of sustainable blue economy practices. In his message on International Zero Waste Day, the minister highlighted how curbing seafood waste safeguards marine ecosystems, bolsters economic resilience, and combats climate change. "Reducing seafood loss is essential to achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 14, protecting and sustainably using our oceans and marine resources," he stated. "Food waste in fisheries not only undermines ecosystems but also threatens livelihoods and economic stability." Pakistan remains committed to global efforts like the UN Ocean Decade and its ‘Marine Life 2030’ vision to restore ocean health. Through innovation, improved supply chains, and responsible practices, the country can slash seafood loss and build a thriving blue economy for future generations. This year's Zero Waste Day theme "Food Loss and Waste", resonates deeply with Pakistan's coastal communities, where fisheries support over 1.5 million livelihoods. The minister noted that Pakistan discards 20-30% of its annual seafood catch equivalent to about 200,000 tons due to poor handling, inadequate cold chains, and market inefficiencies. "Seafood waste isn't just lost protein; it's squandered ocean capital," he declared. "From Karachi's bustling fish harbours to Gwadar's emerging blue economy hubs, we must turn waste into wealth through innovation and policy." Citing Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) data, he added that global seafood waste accounts for 10% of fisheries' carbon footprint.
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