Research highlights climate change impact of food waste
New research has revealed that 75 per cent of people in the Highlands and Islands are unaware that food waste can be an even bigger contributor to climate change than discarded plastic.
Zero Waste Scotland found that sending just a single kilogram of food waste to landfill produces the same carbon emissions as landfilling 25,000 plastic bottles. The not-for-profit body is urging people to take action to reduce food waste, just as they are already doing with plastic.
With world leaders set to gather in Glasgow for the COP26 climate change conference, the study shows that most people in the Highlands and Islands think reducing plastic use in their home is the best way of reducing their carbon footprint, when, in fact, food waste releases more emissions.
The "Blue Planet effect" in recent years has led to positive action to reduce the impact plastic has on the environment, from packaging-free shops to a forthcoming Scottish Government ban on common single-use plastic items.
Zero Waste Scotland is on a mission to do the same for food waste, highlighting the hidden carbon cost of food that goes uneaten.
The environmental body has teamed up with celebrity photographer Rankin for a soon-to-be-revealed food waste photography series.
Iain Gulland, chief executive at Zero Waste Scotland, said: “The sea change in attitudes to plastic over the past few years has been one of the most dramatic shifts in public consciousness around the environment we’ve ever seen. The same shift now needs to happen for food waste.
“Our research shows that most people in the Highlands and Islands think they are doing what they can for climate change, but the majority are unaware of the massive impact of food waste.
“We know people want to do their bit for the environment so our message is this – the easiest way you can fight climate change is by reducing the amount of food you waste. It’s as simple as that.”
Urging the public to take small actions to reduce food waste, Zero Waste Scotland’s top tips include:
- "Shop savvy" – Over half of the food we throw away can be eaten so meal planning will help both your pockets and the planet.
- "Push pause" – Freezing your food and being smarter with storage can help make the food you buy last longer.
- "Love leftovers" – Get creative in the kitchen with leftovers to make the most of excess ingredients.
More information can be found at www.zerowastescotland.org.uk/cop26