NSW households are being called on to take part in the Love Food Challenge this spring – a free, fun and practical online program designed to help people reduce food waste, save money and cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Delivered by the NSW Environment Protection Authority's (EPA) Love Food Hate Waste program, the challenge runs throughout September and into early October, guiding participants through simple food saving tips and habits across four weekly themes: Food Waste Warrior, Storage Superhero, Planning Pro and Portion Perfectionist.
Participants who sign up between 9 and 25 August will receive weekly advice direct to their inbox and a free kit of food saving goodies delivered to their door.
NSW EPA Manager Organics, Amanda Kane said reducing food waste is one of the easiest ways households can save money and help the environment.
"The average NSW household throws out nearly 220kg of food each year, costing around $2,100," Ms Kane said.
"Food waste is one of the biggest carbon emitters. Every tonne of food waste in landfill creates around 1.5 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.
"Even just storing your fruit and vegetables properly can save you money, reduce waste and keep good food out of the bin."
Food waste facts every household should know:
- The average person in Australia wastes almost 100kg of food every year, with bread, fruit and vegetables topping the list
- Households are the largest source of food waste in NSW, throwing away 688,000 tonnes of edible food each year
- Every tonne of food that breaks down in landfill generates 1.5 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions
- Following the tips in last year's challenge participants saved an estimated $160 on groceries and reduced their food waste by nearly 8kg over the month
The challenge is open to everyone in NSW, with a particular focus on young adults (18 to 24) and families with young children – two groups that tend to waste the most food.
"This is a great opportunity to build simple, lasting habits that make a real difference," Ms Kane said.
"Sign up to this free online program by 25 August to receive weekly tips throughout September and get a free kit of food saving tools delivered straight to your home."
Registrations are now open. Sign up today at: https://cloud.mail.epa.nsw.gov.au/LoveFoodChallengeRegistration
