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Every year, one-third of the world’s total food supply is wasted or lost. And, 97% of this waste is directed to landfills and incinerators that contribute to the production of global warming gases, especially methane. Food waste is a huge problem at every step in the supply chain. To combat this problem, communities should come together and adopt Zero Waste methods. How to go about it? Read on to know.
Set Benchmarks and a Timeline – In every industry, it is important to set timelines and benchmarks to measure accomplishments and success. Similarly, communities must set benchmarks and timelines to achieve Zero Food Waste. In some communities, people have adopted the goal of diverting 90% waste away from incinerators and landfills within 10 to 15 years. Others have set larger goals of achieving Zero Waste by the year 2040 such as the Urban Environmental Accords. However, before setting goals and timelines, you must:
Engage the Entire Community – Achieving zero waste isn’t possible unless every member of the community engages in the project. So, do not leave the responsibility to the waste experts. Here are a few things you must do:
Perform Waste Assessments – A waste audit is important since it allows identifying the types of waste produced in a community. If funding is not available, you can collect data locally or access it from comparable communities. By performing the audits, you will be able to create a baseline based on which recovery opportunities can be identified. Here’s what you can do:
Educate the Community – Educate residents, visitors, and businesses about the Zero Waste strategy. Brainstorm and devise ways to achieve better organization and industrial design. Communities must also conduct workshops in schools, universities, and workplaces on how to practice Zero Waste. Develop/Expand Zero Food Waste Infrastructures – To achieve Zero Waste, the infrastructure must be in accordance with the strategy. Here’s how Zero Waste infrastructures can be expanded:
Author Bio: Erich Lawson is passionate about saving the environment through effective recycling techniques and modern innovations. He works with Compactor Management Company and writes on a variety of topics related to recycling, including tips and advice on how balers, compactors and shredders can be used to reduce industrial waste. He loves helping businesses understand how to lower their monthly garbage bills and increase revenue from recycling.
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As Covid-19 becomes a reality in our region, Bountiful Cities wants you to know that we will continue to be a resource for the communities most affected by issues of food insecurity. We will continue our work on LONG-TERM food security solutions by SUPPORTING PEOPLE GROWING FOOD and MEDICINE.
What Does That Look Like? We are not certain what the future holds but we do know that many in our community have the ability to grow food. Growing Food = Food Security. Bountiful Cities Community Garden Network (CGN) has resources. Our SEED LIBRARY and TOOL LIBRARY are available for folks who need those resources. If you need space to grow and would like to get connected to one of the 36 gardens in our network please respond to this email or contact [email protected]. Also, the CGN offers free educational workshops on things like Medicinal Herbs and Plant Medicine, and Grant Writing. We are assessing which upcoming workshops can be moved to an online platform, and now is a great time to utilize the Community Garden Network listserv to be able to communicate with all other community growers in Asheville and Buncombe County instantly as needs and opportunities arise. To be added to the listserv, just email Isa with that request. To use the listserv just write [email protected] in the To line of your email. Our Grass to Greens edible landscaping crew can assist you if you want to start a garden and need consulting (this can be done via phone if necessary). Our FEAST school gardens will continue growing food and distributing it to the communities we serve. What Can You Do? Stay connected with us, grow food, and share food! If you want more specifics on volunteering please respond to this email, or contact [email protected]. Donations can be made here Like our Facebook Page to find out more about our educational resources. What do you need? New developments are arising hourly, and everyone's needs are shifting. If there are things that you need in the realm of food security support please do not hesitate to reach out. Take care of yourself and your loved ones. |
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