November: Cut Food Waste
Did you know that about one-third of the U.S. food supply goes to waste each year? That’s billions of dollars lost — and, according to the EPA, food is the single largest category of material in municipal landfills, where it generates methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
By reducing food waste, we can save money, lessen our environmental footprint, and help get wholesome food to people who need it. Small changes at home can make a big difference.
- Understand Food Labels. “Use By” and “Sell By” dates can be confusing, but they don’t always mean food is unsafe. Visit the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service website for clear explanations.
- Compost Your Scraps. Turning food scraps into compost keeps them out of landfills and creates nutrient-rich material for gardens or container plants. Find how-to guides at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk and the Town of Huntington.
- Learn and Be Inspired. This month, organic gardening expert Renato will present “The Wild Harvest: Grow, Catch, Cook” — a program on Nov. 13 exploring fishing, beekeeping, cooking, and the abundance we can grow or harvest close to home.
Take the challenge this November: explore these resources, try one new food-waste–reducing habit, and help make our community more sustainable.
Upcoming Events
Get into the holiday spirit with our festive Holiday Wrap Party!
Join designer Elizabeth and learn how to create these sweet giving cards or tags inspired by nature.
Tweens and Teens are invited to drop into the YA Library to play on a variety of video gaming systems setup with preselected games. This will not be a quiet library night! No registration required.