How to cut down food waste (and fight climate change)

Basic Methods

Marielle Segarra introduces composting as a simple yet effective way to recycle food scraps and reduce methane emissions. She explains that composting can be as easy as using a separate trash can for food waste and storing scraps in the freezer to prevent odors. This method not only helps in waste management but also enriches the soil when the compost is used as a fertilizer.

The easiest way to compost is, yep, we're coming back to it. The freezer. As you have scraps, whether it's carrot peel or apple core or rinds, put them in a container and stick it in the freezer.

--- Marielle Segarra

Segarra emphasizes that composting is worth the effort as it prevents food waste from contributing to climate change by producing methane gas in landfills 1.

   

Environmental Benefits

Composting offers significant environmental benefits by reducing methane emissions and enriching soil health. Marielle Segarra highlights that the aerobic breakdown of food scraps in composting prevents methane release, a potent greenhouse gas. This process also improves soil quality, making it more fertile and better at retaining moisture.

Think of composting as a way to recycle your food scraps. When food scraps are composted, they break down in a way that reduces or prevents the release of methane.

--- Marielle Segarra

By composting, individuals can make a direct positive impact on the environment, contributing to the fight against climate change 1.

   

Drop-off Points

Segarra provides practical advice on where to drop off compost, making it accessible for urban dwellers. Many cities offer compost collection sites, and some even provide curbside pickup. Farmers' markets are also common drop-off points, making it convenient for people to participate in composting efforts.

Then you can take it to a drop off spot. Some cities have compost collection sites. A handful of cities will actually pick up your compost at the curb.

--- Marielle Segarra

These options make composting more feasible for those who may not have the space or resources to compost at home 1.

   

Gardening Tips

Using compost in gardening can significantly enhance soil health and plant growth. Marielle Segarra explains that compost acts as a natural fertilizer, improving soil structure and moisture retention. This makes the soil healthier and more productive for gardening.

And if you are a gardener, you know just how fabulous that soil is. Once you've added in your composted material, it works as a fertilizer. It helps to prevent moisture from leaking out.

--- Marielle Segarra

Gardeners can benefit from richer, more fertile soil, leading to better plant health and yields 1.

   

Overall Impact

The overall impact of composting extends beyond individual benefits to significant environmental gains. Marielle Segarra summarizes that composting helps reduce food waste at every stage of the supply chain, from farms to grocery stores. This collective effort can lead to substantial reductions in methane emissions and soil degradation.

Composting is an amazing, feel good way for you to have a direct impact on the environment and know that you're making a change.

--- Marielle Segarra

By adopting composting practices, individuals contribute to a larger movement towards sustainability and climate change mitigation 1.