Reducing Food Waste and Emissions

Every year, millions of tonnes of food waste end up in landfills. Here are some compelling statistics highlighting the issue:

• 1 in 5 households in the UK throw away food that could be eaten.
• Food waste accounts for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
• The average American generates 4.4 pounds of food waste per day.

When food waste decomposes in landfills, it releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. By composting, we can reduce emissions and keep organic matter out of landfills.

The Power of Compost

Good compost is rich in organic matter and beneficial microbes. These microbes help to:

1. Enrich the soil, making it more fertile and receptive to water.
2. Resist pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and fungicides.
3. Cycle nutrients more effectively, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.

Healthy soil grows more nutrient-dense food, creating a cycle of benefits that starts and ends with the soil.

Community Benefits

Composting has numerous benefits for our communities. For example:

• By composting, we reduce the pressure on our waste collection systems.
• We create rich compost that feeds local gardens and parks.
• We foster a culture of environmental stewardship and shared responsibility.

In addition to these benefits, composting can create local jobs and stimulate local economies.

The Benefits of Backyard Composting

Backyard composting is simple, satisfying and incredibly rewarding. Here are some reasons why you should give it a try:

• It’s easy to get started, with plenty of free resources available online.
• You can create nutrient-rich compost that improves your soil, helps your plants grow stronger and even saves you money on garden products.

Whether you use a compost bin, a worm farm or a simple heap in the garden, backyard composting is a great way to make a positive impact.

A Community-Based Solution

For those who don’t have the space or time to compost at home, there are community-based solutions available. In Mangawhai, Sustainable Kaipara has been running a weekly food scrap collection service for the past four years.

This service has already diverted food scraps from landfill and nourished hundreds of local gardens, including the Mangawhai Community Garden.

The Ripple Effect

Composting may seem like a small action, but its effects are profound. By reducing food waste and emissions, we can:

1. Improve soil health, leading to healthier plants and crops.
2. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.
3. Strengthen our communities, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and shared responsibility.

In conclusion, composting is a powerful tool for creating positive change. By taking small actions, we can make a significant impact on the world around us. So why not give composting a try? You could be making a difference, one scrap at a time.

Get Started with Composting

If you’re unsure how to get started with composting, don’t worry! There are plenty of resources available to help you on your journey. Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Start small and scale up as you go.
• Choose a method that works for you, whether it’s a compost bin, worm farm or simple heap.
• Get creative and have fun with the process!

By following these tips and taking the first step towards composting, you can start making a positive impact on your community and the environment. Remember, every small action counts, and together we can create a more sustainable future.