Are You Thinking About Your Part in Combating Climate Change All Wrong?

What if I told you that what you may be thinking about your part in combating climate change is wrong? And what if I told you that by committing to take just one action—reducing household food waste — you could have a significant impact?

A recent multi-country research study involving 9,000 adults from the US, UK, France, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, Poland, Singapore, and New Zealand shed light on the primary reasons people hesitate to take action against climate change. Let's explore some of these key reasons and uncover the misconceptions that might be holding you back.

• "I can't afford to make those efforts" (60%): Contrary to popular belief, the actions you take to reduce food waste can save you both time and money. By being mindful of your grocery shopping and planning meals ahead, the average family of four could save over $1600 annually on groceries. Additionally, this approach can help streamline your meal preparation and free up valuable time.
• "There isn't agreement among experts on the best solutions" (72%): While it's true that experts may have differing opinions on various climate change solutions, there is consensus that food waste is a major contributor to the problem. In fact, household food waste is the number one contributor to landfills. By focusing on reducing food waste at home, you are actively contributing to a solution that experts agree upon.
• "I don't think individual efforts can really have an impact" (39%): It's natural to believe that significant change can only be achieved through large-scale innovations and technological breakthroughs. However, when enough families prioritize reducing food waste, their collective efforts can create a tremendous impact. Unlike many global issues, reducing food waste is one that individuals can address directly in their own homes. By making it a priority, you not only educate your family about the dire consequences of food waste but also equip them with the tools to combat it.

A recent survey from Yale Program on Climate Communication revealed that 64% of Americans are worried, yet only 67% engage in discussions about global warming with their loved ones. It's time to break the silence and foster open conversations about climate change, starting right at home.

By embracing the power of reducing food waste and supporting initiatives like the Food Waste Project, we can create a united front against climate change. Remember, our actions, no matter how small, hold immense power when we come together as a community. Let's take a stand against food waste and pave the way for a greener and brighter future!