Action for Households

Food

Household food waste accounts for 2,240,000 tonnes CO2e, this represents 2.9% of Scotland's carbon footprint.  By taking action to prevent food waste the average household could save around £60 a month.

  • Before grocery shopping, write out a meal plan and shopping list and only buy what you need
  • Choose seasonal fruit and vegetables
  • Consider reducing meat and dairy produce
  • Cover pots and pans so that water boils faster (this uses less energy)
  • Fill your freezer so leftovers don't go to waste
  • Grow your own -- the Council's Fair Food webpage can provide information and advice
  • Make sure you understand the difference between "best before" and "use by" dates
  • Reduce food miles, look for local produce or food produced within the UK -- also think about walking, cycling or using public transport instead of driving to reduce your own food miles
  • The Love Food Hate Waste campaign has lots of information on reducing food waste as well as recipes to try out
  • Try to avoid special offers on perishable foods
  • Try to have at least one day a week meat-free