Food & Compost

From Plate to Planet

Why You Should Care

Every bite we eat connects us to the planet. But across Canada, nearly 60% of all food produced ends up as waste — and most of that could have been eaten.
When food rots in landfills, it doesn’t just “disappear.” It breaks down without oxygen and releases methane, a greenhouse gas 25 times more powerful than carbon dioxide.

Meanwhile, we spend billions growing, shipping, and refrigerating food that never gets used. So the impact of food waste isn’t just about spoiled lettuce — it’s about wasted energy, water, land, and labor, too.

The good news - Reducing food waste is one of the simplest, most powerful ways to fight climate change and save money — no policy change required.

Wild Facts

• The average Canadian household throws out over $1,700 worth of food every year.

• About 2.3 million tonnes of edible food are wasted annually — enough to feed the entire population of Vancouver ten times over.

• Fruits, veggies, and leftovers make up nearly half of what ends up in household garbage.

• Keeping your fridge at 3°C and freezer at –18°C keeps food fresher longer and prevents power waste, too.

• Composting just one kilogram of food waste prevents the equivalent of 2.5 kilograms of CO₂ emissions.

What You Can Do Right Now

You don’t need to become a homesteader or own a fancy compost tumbler to make a difference. 

Here are quick wins you can start today

Every meal is a chance to make a difference.
When we buy thoughtfully, store wisely, and compost what’s left, we close the loop 

- feeding the planet that feeds us.