Warm Weather is an Invitation to Be Outdoors

As the warm weather rolls in, it’s the perfect time to gather friends and family outdoors to celebrate important events like Mother’s Day, graduations and Memorial Day. But did you know that the food waste we create during these celebrations can have a significant impact on the environment? This May, we’re not only celebrating milestones, but also finding ways to reduce food waste and create a more sustainable future for all.

FOOD WASTE’S IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT

It’s hard to imagine that nearly 160,000 acres of land are used every year to produce food that ends up in the Franklin County Sanitary Landfill. When we reduce food waste, we not only save money but also conserve precious resources such as water, and reduce the strain on landfills.

One powerful way to reduce food waste during your outdoor celebrations is by composting your food scraps and paper products. Instead of tossing your leftovers, peels or paper plates into the trash, you can turn them into nutrient-rich soil that nourishes your garden and plants.

THE BENEFITS OF COMPOSTING AT HOME

Composting is an easy and effective way to turn food scraps, paper products and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil for your garden. It adds essential nutrients, improves soil structure and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers — all while diverting waste from landfills. Best of all, it’s simple to do at home! Learn more about how composting works in this video.

COMPOSTING TIPS FOR PICNICS

• Get a Discounted Composter: Through the Community Backyards Program, Franklin County residents can attend a class (online or in person) to receive a special rate on a backyard composting bin to start composting at home.
• Set Up a Compost Bin: If you don’t already have one, setting up a compost bin is easy! Simply designate a spot in your yard to collect scraps and food waste.
• Compost Food Scraps: At your outdoor events, save your fruit and veggie scraps for backyard composting, and if using the community drop-off locations, you can also compost your meat and dairy.
• Use a Compostable Plate or Cup: If you’re using disposable plates and utensils for your party, opt for compostable options to reduce waste.
• No Room for a Compost Bin? Use SWACO’s free organic material drop-off sites instead! You can even drop off more items, like meat and dairy, that you can’t compost at home.

ENJOY FRESH, WASTE-FREE MEALS: SMOOTHIES

If you’re looking for an easy, waste-reducing recipe after your celebration, smoothies are perfect for using up leftover fruits and vegetables. They’re refreshing, customizable and a great way to make the most of seasonal ingredients, all while cutting down on food waste. Plus, leftover produce can be frozen and blended later — making smoothies a simple treat you can enjoy anytime.

DOWNLOAD RECIPE >