Food waste is a significant issue in New Zealand, with substantial environmental, economic, and social implications.
The Problem of Food Waste
Food waste is a significant issue in New Zealand, with an estimated 20% of the country’s food production being wasted. This not only affects the environment but also has economic and social implications. In Auckland, the average household generates around 1.5 kilograms of food waste per day, which translates to approximately 540 kilograms per year. This staggering amount of waste is not only a concern for the environment but also for the local economy, as it results in significant losses for farmers and food producers. The environmental impact of food waste is substantial, with methane emissions from decomposing organic waste contributing to climate change. Food waste also has significant economic implications, with an estimated NZD 1.3 billion in annual losses for the New Zealand economy. Furthermore, food waste affects social welfare, with many families struggling to make ends meet and relying on food banks to access basic necessities.
The Solution: Food Scrap Recycling
A group of local sustainability advocates, farmers, and small businesses are working together to change the way food scraps are perceived and managed on the Hibiscus Coast. This initiative aims to reduce food waste by promoting food scrap recycling.
Turning Food Scraps into a Resource, Not Waste.
The Problem of Food Scraps in Landfill
Food scraps are a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with the average American household generating around 200 pounds of food waste per year. This waste ends up in landfills, where it decomposes and produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential 28 times higher than carbon dioxide. The production of methane from food waste is a significant concern, as it contributes to climate change and has severe environmental and health impacts.
The Bokashi Composting Method
City to Farm uses the bokashi composting method to process food scraps. This method involves adding microorganisms to the scraps, which break down the organic matter into a nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer and a solid compost. The liquid fertilizer is then used to feed crops, while the solid compost is used as a soil amendment.