Community campaign promotes composting to combat food waste and climate change

On June 3, 2025, California Volunteers convened a government meeting focused on the "Take the Pledge to Compost" initiative, highlighting the critical role of composting in combating climate change. The meeting underscored the staggering statistic that Americans waste approximately 92 billion pounds of food annually, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. This waste generates methane in landfills, a potent greenhouse gas that accounts for about 10% of global emissions from food loss and waste—nearly five times the emissions produced by the entire aviation industry.

The discussions emphasized that composting food scraps, such as vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells, can transform waste into nutrient-rich soil. This practice not only helps gardens thrive but also mitigates harmful emissions by keeping organic waste out of landfills. Participants were encouraged to adopt simple habits, like meal planning and utilizing green bins for composting, to make a substantial environmental impact.

The initiative aims to inspire households across California to embrace composting as a straightforward yet effective way to reduce waste and pollution. By taking the Climate Action Counts pledge, residents can contribute to a healthier environment and support community sustainability efforts. The meeting concluded with a call to action, urging Californians to join the movement and make a difference in their kitchens and communities.