Graeme Swan, our Catering Manager, has some brilliant advice on how we can play our part to reduce our food waste here at Exeter School.
Last week we threw away 191KG of food; the same weight as a fully grown male lion!
Did you know that all the food we throw away at school adds up to a huge problem? Think about it: uneaten sandwiches, apple cores, leftover veggies – it seems small, but it makes a big difference. Reducing food waste isn’t just good for the planet, it’s good for us too!
First, think about the environment. When food rots in landfills, it creates harmful gases that contribute to climate change. That’s like wrapping the Earth in a blanket that’s too hot! Reducing food waste helps keep our planet healthy and cool. Here at Exeter School our food waste is recycled into bio-fuels and re-used to avoid going to landfill.
Second, it saves resources. Growing food takes a lot of water, energy, and land. When we waste food, we’re also wasting all those precious resources. Imagine how much water went into growing that lettuce you didn’t eat – it’s a lot! By eating what we take, we’re saving water and energy.
Thirdly, it saves money! We spend a lot of money on food. When we waste food, we’re throwing money away. If we reduce waste, schools can use that money for other important things, like new books or sports equipment.
Finally, it sets a good example. When we reduce food waste at school, we can inspire our families and friends to do the same at home. It’s like a chain reaction of goodness!
So, what can you do? Take only what you can eat. Finish what’s on your plate. If you’re not sure you’ll eat something, don’t take it. Talk to your friends and family about reducing food waste. Together, we can make a big difference!
