Did you know that the United States is the world leader in food waste? As in approximately 108 billion pounds! Not something to be proud of. It certainly weighs on my conscience as it may yours too. Some of the food that is discarded is beyond our control, like the 40% from restaurants and grocery stores or the 16% from farms, but 43% of waste is generated in our homes. Most of this ends up in our landfills which release methane gas that is 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Plus, landfills are expensive and it is difficult to find places to build new ones.

The five most common foods in our homes to spoil are: bread, milk, potatoes, cheese, and apples. How to decrease food spoilage:

1. Track your trash to see what is spoiling in your home.
2. Shop for a few days at a time.
3. Plan your meals.
4. Reduce the food in your fridge (or take out a shelf). You will be able to see what is there better by keeping your fridge clutter-free.
5. Save and eat leftovers
6. Store food correctly– wrap or put in a container so it doesn't dry out, etc.
7. When you go out to eat, take your own container for leftovers and bring them home. It is nice to have something already made for a meal the next day. 

By the way, to cut down on waste at church, the Green Team has begun washing ceramic mugs and the hard plastic cups that the church owns. We would love volunteers to help one Sunday every two months or so. Contact me at . Training provided.