Sustainable Solutions for Food Waste

This communications handbook is designed to assist municipalities and public health units in developing and implementing effective food waste prevention communications aimed at residents, clients, and staff.

Objectives of the Handbook

The Sustainable Solutions for Food Waste handbook aims to:

• Serve as an adaptable resource for creating program-specific communications focused on reducing avoidable food waste.
• Promote awareness and encourage community involvement in food waste reduction initiatives.
• Support municipalities in their organics waste reduction and recovery efforts.

Target Audiences

This guidance document focuses on two key target groups:

• Internal staff of municipalities and public health units
• Residents and community partners

Why Food Waste Reduction and Diversion Matters

In Canada, a significant amount of food produced is never consumed, leading to wasted energy and resources, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. Households are responsible for 51% of this waste, averaging $1,500 (Canadian dollars) lost annually per family. Reducing food waste can save money, create a sustainable environment, and help mitigate climate change. Initiatives like municipal Green Bin programs and composting are crucial in addressing this issue.

Ontario’s Food and Organic Waste Policy Statement (2018) mandates municipalities to reduce food waste at all stages of the food supply chain, supporting organics recovery programs to meet provincial targets.

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