Springfield: Environmental Services guide to reducing food waste this Holiday season

~ As the holiday season approaches, Springfield Environmental Services is urging residents to be mindful of their food waste. With Thanksgiving and New Year's just around the corner, the amount of waste at the city's landfill is expected to double. In an effort to combat this issue, the City has made its Dish to Dirt Food Scraps Recycling program a permanent offering at all three drop-off recycling centers.

According to Ashley Krug, Market Development Coordinator with Environmental Services, a large portion of the increased waste during the holidays is due to excess food being thrown away. "With just a few simple changes, families can dramatically reduce what gets thrown away," she says.

To help households plan appropriately and avoid overbuying, Springfield Environmental Services recommends using tools like the Guestimator. Additionally, proper food storage techniques can extend the shelf life of ingredients and leftovers. From freezing to using airtight containers, these small steps can save both meals and money.

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For those who find themselves with an abundance of leftovers after holiday gatherings, getting creative with "second life" recipes is encouraged. There are countless ways to give yesterday's meal a fresh twist.

In terms of sustainability during gatherings, reusable plates, cups, napkins and utensils are always the best choice. Local thrift stores are a great place to find inexpensive table sets. However, if disposable options are necessary, choosing recyclable or compostable products whenever possible is recommended.

And for any food that cannot be eaten or reused, Springfield's Dish to Dirt Food Scraps Program offers a solution. This program has already diverted over 150,000 pounds of food waste from the landfill and aims to continue this success during the holiday season. To participate in this program, residents can simply stop by any City drop-off recycling center and ask for a yellow food scraps bin. While sign-up is not required, participants are encouraged to register online for program updates and information on new recycling opportunities.

With these tips and resources, Springfield residents can make a positive impact on the amount of food waste produced during the holiday season. Let's work together to reduce waste and create a more sustainable community.

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