If you're chomping at the bit to do your part in reducing food waste—and let's face it, you should be considering that a startling 40% of food in the U.S. never gets eaten—then there's some low-hanging fruit just waiting for your attention. According to a recent statement from the City of Salem's "Save the Food" campaign, simply using up what you buy can save resources and offer some relief to your wallet of about $1,500 a year for an average family of four.
One of the suggested strategies is planning meals and only hitting the grocery store with a specific list. Keeping a watchful eye on proper storage for your fruits and veggies - trust us, not everything belongs in the cooler confines of your fridge - can also make a significant dent in food waste. As the City of Salem's website points out, this isn't just about wasted munchies; when food decomposes in landfills, it's responsible for a hefty chunk of methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas.
Now, get ready to get your hands dirty for the environment. Befittingly, May 29 graces us with Learn About Composting Day, and setting up a home compost bin is one of the actionable steps you can take to turn your kitchen scraps into garden gold. Choosing the right bin is your first step, whether wire, wood, cinder blocks, or an enclosed bin to discourage any uninvited furry guests from crashing the party.
