In our journey towards a more sustainable and eco-conscious world, one of the critical areas we can address is reducing food waste. At Greenwin, we believe that small changes in our daily lives can contribute to a healthier planet.
Did you know Canadians create over 50 million tonnes of food waste every year despite 60% of it being avoidable through better planning and awareness? (madeinca.ca) Not only does this represent a significant loss of resources, but it also contributes to environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions. When organic waste breaks down in landfills, it produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas that significantly contributes to climate change. By reducing food waste, we can play a vital role in mitigating these environmental impacts.
Tips for reducing food waste:
Smart Shopping
Plan your meals and create a shopping list to avoid impulse purchases. It also helps to be mindful of expiration dates, choose products with longer shelf lives, and buy in bulk for non-perishable items to reduce packaging waste.
Proper Storage
Store fruits and vegetables properly to maximize freshness. Some items belong in the fridge, while others are best kept at room temperature. Also make sure to use airtight containers to keep leftovers fresh for a longer time.
Meal Planning
Plan your meals for the week to ensure you use all your ingredients before they spoil and challenge yourself to get creative with leftovers – they can be transformed into delicious new dishes!
Composting
For residents with access to green bins, utilize them for food scraps. Composting not only reduces waste but also creates nutrient-rich soil for gardens.
Enter to #WinWithGreenwin
Don’t forget to enter this month’s #winwithgreenwin contest to show us how you’re reducing food waste to win a $100 gift card! Inspire your community with ways to use all parts of a food item, salvaging something on its last days, or creating a unique dish with leftovers.
Snap a pic and share it on Facebook, Instagram or X with #winwithgreenwin or email it to info@greenwin.ca by November 30th to enter to win!