Before you toss those leftover yams or turkey, Lane County officials urge you to get creative and share a recipe instead.
Waste Wise is part of the county’s waste management division, and for the second year of its “Simplify the Holidays” campaign, is sponsoring a recipe contest.
Waste reduction outreach coordinator Dan Hiestand said the holidays are a time of joy and merriment, but also of waste.
“20% of the garbage Lane County residents throw away is actually purchased food,” Hiestand told KLCC. “So there’s an opportunity there for improvement. In fact, the average family of four tosses out roughly $2000 every year in wasted food.”
Food waste is a leading methane producer, which contributes to global warming.
“Waste Wise Lane County is laser-focused on helping empower residents and businesses with food waste reduction tools,” Hiestand said. “Between 30 to 40 percent of all food produced is never eaten, so preventing wasted food is one of the most powerful things we can do to address the climate crisis. Eating what you have is a critical part of that. We hope this contest shows leftovers can be quite delicious with a little creativity while saving money.”
People have until New Year’s Eve to submit their homespun recipes, with winners announced on January 3. Rules are on Waste Wise's social media accounts. Prizes include gift certificates and sustainable products, as well as peace of mind knowing those cranberries aren’t headed to the landfill.
