Food Waste:
Turning Excess into Opportunity
Food waste contributes significantly to climate change, yet much of it can be avoided
One-third of all food produced globally is wasted. When food is sent to landfills, it generates methane, a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent
than CO₂.
Reducing food waste is one of the most impactful ways to address climate change. Food waste generates 8% of global greenhouse gases and costs the U.S. $218 billion per year.
What’s West Marin Doing?
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![A pantry shelf with various brands of sunflower butter, as well as some unidentified cans.]()
Re-Directing Excess Food
Redistribute surplus food from farms, restaurants, and backyards to food banks, schools, and those in need.
ExtraFood.org helps connect excess food with food-insecure families.
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![A cutting board with a knife, potato, and zucchini on it. There is also a small, metal, light blue bin reading "compost," a potted plant, and an unidentified piece of metal.]()
Composting Initiatives
Support composting at homes, schools, and businesses to reduce food waste going to landfills.
Learn about Marin County’s composting policy — California SB1383.
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![A protest with many people, some holding signs. Signs read "Climate Justice For All," "Dismantle the patriarchy, not the planet," and "people, power, now."]()
Education and Advocacy
Plan meals in advance to minimize food waste. Freeze leftovers.
Advocate for civic leaders to ensure targets for organic waste reduction are met — Senate Bill 1383
Take Action
Reduce Your Food Waste