Economic and waste flow analysis of available scenarios to improve food waste management in Tehran

The increase in food waste and its health, environmental, and economic consequences is a serious concern. In this study, the hierarchy of food waste management in Tehran was investigated. Food waste drivers were considered to define sustainable management policy scenarios. The results showed that, in Tehran the ratio of food waste in municipal solid waste has decreased by 6.6 % in past ten years. In current situation 90 % of food waste landfilled. The financial balance in the current situation showed a cost of 18 million USD/year, while the scenarios leading to a 40 % reduction in food waste and increasing the capacity of 3R–50 % will lead to improve financial balance by 11 million USD/year. Available practices to reduce food waste production will reduce 47.8 % of waste management costs. In the optimum scenario, the environmental consequences of food waste management will decrease by 40 % compared to the current status. Changes in food waste management based on sustainable development policies can be useful in reducing urban management costs and reducing environmental impacts in developing countries. • The hierarchy of food waste management in Tehran was investigated. • The results showed that 4061 tons/day of food waste is produced in Tehran. • In the current situation, 90 % of food waste is landfilled. • The cost of food waste management in Tehran was estimated at 18 million USD/year. • In available scenarios, $11 million USD/year can be saved.