Reduce Food Waste
among the Residents of the Municipality of Groningen
among the Residents of the Municipality of Groningen
Explore our project: Reducing food waste in Groningen!
Groningen has the goal to be waste-free by 2030, for this project we have been focusing on solutions towards reducing household food waste. Especially because food waste has an essential environmental footprint. After analyzing the current situation, stakeholders and the background, we evaluated a set of initiatives. Following this, we came up with advice for the municipality in the form of a decision tree, which initiatives can be implemented in Groningen. Have a look at our research to discover solutions that aim for a more sustainable, economically responsible, and waste-conscious Groningen!
How many kg of food waste does every Dutch individual produce per year?
33 kg
On average, Dutch citizens contribute approximately 33 kg of food waste per year per person, highlighting the urgent need to reevaluate our approach to food disposal.
When does the municipality of Groningen want to be waste-free?
2030 - Furthermore the Netherlands are aiming to be waste free by 2050
What factors drive consumer food waste?
over-purchasing
lack of planning
improper storage
expiration dates
What is the difference between the use by date and the best before date?
The best before date is for products that are lasting longer. After the best before date the quality of the product may lessen but it is often still good and safe for consumption (and can depending on the product be for a long time). Look, smell, taste products that are after the best before date.
The use by date is for perishable products. The use by date marks the last day where a product is still safe to eat. You should use or freeze this product on that date.
Mixing up these dates is one of the biggest reasons for food waste that would've been avoidable, so it is important to know the difference.
6 Easy tips for consumers:
1. Check your pantry. What needs to be used up first?
2. Make a list for your grocery shopping.
3. Look, smell, taste! Use your senses for food that is over the best before date.
4. Eat or freeze your food that is on the use by date.
5. Know how to correctly store your food. Visit the Voedingscentrum website to order free tools and stickers indicating correct storage.
6. Become creative with your leftovers.
If you want to know more, you can check out our project or look at the website of United Against Food Waste.