Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/122153
greenkeeper we're going to need 70 per cent more food, so meeting that demand will be easier if food production and consumer habits become more efficient and sustainable. "People think that when they throw away food it just naturally rots back into the environment and everyone's happy. The fact is throwing away food is the single most damaging thing you can do environmentally." Jon says. How so? Besides wasting the resources that have gone into producing the food, when food rots it releases methane, which is more potent than the CO2 that spews out of your car's exhaust pipe. Fifty to 100 years ago, people were eating mostly local, seasonal food. When you compare that with today's supply chain where food is grown and then refrigerated and shipped around the world to satisfy consumer desires, you can see where the problem starts. Most food waste occurs on the supply chain: lost during harvest; subject to poor storage during travel; and not sold once it reaches the supermarket. Of the food that is purchased, "The largest waste is from people who cook too much food, people who don't know how to use leftovers, and people who throw out food according to the 'best before' date," Jon says. " 'Best before' is just an advisory – it doesn't mean the food isn't also fine after that. Have a smell and a look. If you think it's okay, it is okay!" It's not all bad news, though. Donating food to charity is becoming a more popular 78 and acceptable practice for businesses and households. In fact, a food donation tool kit is available on the FoodWise website (www.foodwise.com.au). Foodbank, the largest food relief organisation in Australia, is among those leading the sustainable food movement by sourcing food (from farms and supermarkets) that would otherwise be wasted and organising for it to be processed and onsold to financially struggling families at a reduced cost. Ultimately, reducing food waste is a win-win situation. As Jon says, "My view on environmental issues is this: What's good for humans and communities is also good for the bottom line. That's where so many people have got the message wrong. Helping the environment by reducing waste is where you can save a lot of money." Be waste wise Jon Dee's tips for reducing food waste at home 1.Plan meals for the week ahead. 2.Don't buy ingredients unnecessarily. Check your pantry for those you already have. 3.Find recipes that use those ingredients. 4.Write a shopping list of the items you need and stick to it. 5.Store food properly when you get it home. 6.Use leftovers as a ready-to-serve meal or incorporate them into a new meal. 7.Remember, you're not just saving food, you're also saving money.