The City of Arcata encourages all residents to participate in Stop Food Waste Day on Wednesday, April 30, by reducing food waste and composting what’s left.
Held annually on the final Wednesday of April, Stop Food Waste Day is a global initiative that raises awareness about the environmental and social impacts of food waste. Not only is a significant amount of energy, land and water required for food production, but food waste is also the leading material in landfills and the top generator of methane emissions. According to the US Department of Agriculture, nearly 40% of all food produced is wasted each year, even as over one in ten people experience hunger and malnutrition. Reducing food waste isn’t just good for the environment, it’s a matter of equity and compassion.
In California, this issue is being addressed through SB 1383, a statewide law that went into effect in 2022. It sets a target to cut organic waste going to landfills by 75% and requires large food producers to donate at least 20% of edible surplus food to people in need. Making food waste reduction a central part of climate action strategies will provide long-term benefits for both people and the planet. To learn more about SB 1383 and the City of Arcata’s efforts, visit cityofarcata.org/sb1383.
Let’s turn awareness into action and make every bite count. Here are some suggested habits:
- Plan properly: Make shopping lists, buy only what’s needed and use what’s already at home before buying more. Serve smaller portions and use smaller dishes to avoid plate waste.
- Store smart: Proper storage keeps food fresher longer. Implement proper storage techniques for the fridge, pantry and freezer to extend freshness. Freeze leftovers, bread, fruits and vegetables instead of throwing them away. Learn more storage methods using the guide at savethefood.com/storage.
- Get creative in the kitchen: Cook meals that incorporate ingredients nearing their expiration. Find ways to use up stems, peels, wilted veggies and overripe fruit such as making soups, smoothies, sauces or baked goods. Check out the collection of recipes designed to give a second life to ingredients that commonly go to waste and other food waste tips at stopfoodwasteday.com.
- Donate extras: Share surplus food with neighbors, donate to a local food pantry or participate in a food drive. Check out Food for People’s Countywide Pantry Network to keep donations in the community. For information on hours and locations, visit foodforpeople.org/pantry-network. The Letter Carriers' Food Drive, on Saturday, May 10, makes it easy for residents to donate food without having to go anywhere. Learn more at foodforpeople.org/food-drives.
- Compost what’s left: Sometimes, food waste is unavoidable. This is where composting comes in. Recycling organic materials can build healthy soil, conserve water and energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to the local economy.
- Residents can purchase a compost bin at the Humboldt Waste Management Authority (HWMA) transfer station while supplies last for $35 each. Visit HWMA at 1059 W. Hawthorne St. in Eureka or call (707) 268-8680 to learn more.
- For those unable to compost at home, utilize local composting services that offer collection and drop-off options like Full Cycle Compost or The Local Worm Guy.
By making small changes, everyone can play a part in creating a more sustainable, just and resilient future. For more information on solid waste management and programs, call the Environmental Services Department at 707-822-8184 or visit cityofarcata.org/275/Recycling-Garbage-and-Organics.