Organic waste is anything that was once alive. Organic waste can be any food product or green wastes—like landscape, pruning, and non-hazardous wood waste. Organic waste accounts for 58% of waste generated in Pacific regions and for 70% of waste in large metropolitan cities. Organic waste is biodegradable, meaning it breaks down much faster than other plastic or glass. Additionally, when organic waste decomposes, carbon dioxide and methane gas are released. Methane is produced when there is no air where the waste is biodegrading whereas carbon dioxide is naturally produced when items rot where there is oxygen. Both carbon dioxide and methane are greenhouse gases that are contributing factors to climate change and global warming. Climate change poses a major threat to the waste sector causing irregular sea level rise, weather patterns, and temperatures.
Improving waste management will help reduce pressure on the planet’s natural resources. Potentially, reducing the emission of greenhouse gases created through mass production and the burning of fossil fuels. To try and offset these damages, one could try sending any extra food to animal feed programs. In these programs, food is converted into animal feed and used on local farms to create an easy solution for farmers and consumers. Another option is composting leftover organic waste. Compost is a soil additive made from organic materials; it’s a natural fertilizer that holds more water and prevents soil erosion and is made of leftover greens, eggshells, twigs, etc. If you want to try composting, search up composting sites near you or make compost in your backyard. For backyard composting you will likely need some sort of container for the waste and will need to turn the waste at least once a day. To contribute to a commercial compost site, search for organic waste or commercial organics recycling facilities. Helping to offset the quantities of organic and food waste can not only reduce the effect of climate change, but also provide a vital tool for your local food supply.
Brianna G The Carbon Newsprint
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