As we gear up for the peak of the festive season, the City of Cape Town is calling on residents to join hands in cutting down on food waste during Christmas celebrations.
This time of year often brings plenty of feasting, but it’s essential to think about the environmental impact of food waste, especially concerning carbon emissions.
Food waste significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, intensifying the effects of climate change. Beyond wasting valuable resources like water, energy and land, discarded leftovers and scraps in landfills generate greenhouse gases, contributing to climate issues.
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To combat this, the City is advocating for mindful planning for holiday meals. Simple strategies like smart shopping and thoughtful meal prep can prevent overstocking and excess consumption.
Here are some tips to minimise food waste this holiday season:
- Create a detailed meal plan and shopping list to avoid overbuying
- Opt for locally-grown and seasonal produce to support local farmers and reduce carbon footprints
- Store food correctly to extend shelf life, minimising spoilage
- Serve smaller portions initially to minimise leftovers
- Transform leftovers into new dishes rather than discarding them
- Consider composting food scraps at home to reduce landfill waste and create nutrient-rich compost for gardens
Also read: 5 eco-friendly ways to celebrate Christmas this year
The City also reminds businesses of their obligation to help steer organic waste away from landfills. Since 2009, businesses have been required to develop integrated waste management plans, detailing waste generation, recycling strategies, pollution prevention and more.
Businesses now need to focus on reducing organic waste by 50% immediately and eliminating organic waste sent to landfills by 2027. The submission portal for waste management plans is open, allowing businesses to revise and submit their plans to avoid penalties.
For businesses seeking to update their waste management plans, submission details can be found on the City’s website.
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