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Reducing food waste

The average Canadian household wastes approximately $1,766 worth of food annually (40 per cent of the food produced in Canada). That’s over $46 million of food wasted in Airdrie alone!

Why does it matter if organics end up in the landfill?

Organics need oxygen to turn into soil, which are not present in a landfill. Organics buried in a landfill releases methane, a greenhouse gas 25 times stronger and more harmful to the Earth than carbon dioxide. They also create leachate, a toxic liquid from garbage, which has to be collected and treated to protect the environment.

If you end up having to throw food away, remember to use your organics carts.

Not sure what goes where? Visit the Where does it go tool.

How to reduce food waste

  • Organize your fridge with most perishable foods in one area. Check out our downloadable fridge makeover sheet (PDF).
  • Get creative with leftovers, like using them to make frittata, soup or a casserole. Try our delicious use-it-up frittata recipe (PDF).
  • Make a weekly meal plan before you go shopping
  • Take inventory of food you have in your fridge before shopping and only buy what you need.
  • Buy less food more often so your fresh food doesn’t go bad before you get to it.
  • Learn how to pack a litterless lunch, and lunches with proper portions.
  • Donate food you don’t need to the Airdrie Food Bank or give it away before it spoils.
  • The Airdrie Food Bank accepts food, including produce, in un-opened packages. Please check with the food bank for what they are currently accepting or in need of, and how to donate.