At this time of the year, as celebratory meals and dinners are getting closer, the “With R For” campaign team would like to take this opportunity to raise awareness about food waste.
In 2021, Spaniards will waste over 1,240 million kilos of food in our homes. Although this represents an 8.6% reduction from the more than 1,300 million kilos wasted in 2020, 3 out of 4 households continue to waste food. *
In addition, food loss and waste currently accounts for between 8% and 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, which inevitably exacerbate climate change.
One of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals calls for reducing food waste by half, and to this end a series of measures should be implemented to reduce the amount of food lost during production, transport and sale, to reduce food wastage in homes, bars and restaurants, and promote food donations.
What can we do to reduce food waste?
- When shopping, it is important to check the larder and the refrigerator, assess the amount of each food item we need and make a list of the products to be purchased. If we also want to buy more sustainably, it is advisable to buy in bulk at local stores and use our own bags and containers.
- When cooking, it is preferable to measure the portions according to the number of people who live at home, to avoid having food often left over.
- If we have cooked too much anyway, the leftovers can be used to prepare creative and useful recipes.
- Storing food properly helps prevent products from spoiling or expiring. You can periodically check your fridge and freezer and the expiration dates so you can organize your weekly menus.
- When eating out, avoid ordering more than you are going to eat, and if the portions are large, you can always take the leftovers home to eat later.
When we reduce waste, we help to promote a more responsible production and consumption, contributing to reduce the impact of food transportation, distribution and consumption. By doing so, we also collaborate with the sustainable development goals, conserving the planet’s natural resources and avoiding an increase in the price of basic necessities.
Leaving a better planet for future generations is simple when we all help.
*Data from the 2021 annual report on Food Waste of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.