The Lowdown on Food Waste

Food waste is no new concept to human existence. Ever since the industrial revolution when we started producing food on an enormous global scale, humanity has been well-acquainted with food waste being a by-product of modern agriculture practices. 

But just how far have we taken our food waste habits? An exceedingly high amount if we’re honest with ourselves. And in such a manner that is ridiculously costly to both our economy and our land. 

Let’s run through some key food waste statistics to give you a greater understanding of food waste around the world, and then more specifically in Australia alone.  

Why we need to reduce food waste

To put matters into perspective, a mind-boggling one-third of the world’s food goes to waste. It’s disproportionate how significant the issue at hand is. Food waste - from produce that never even leaves the farm, to that which is lost in transportation, and wastage from households and hospitality businesses alike - is one of the key reasons we ventured into waste management in the first place. On a global scale, it accounts for a sizable eight per cent of greenhouse gas emissions! 

We can’t settle for this kind of activity long-term, it just isn’t sustainable or viable in any way if we want to build a resilient, clean energy future. Our planet is being weighed down by our wasteful habits and Goterra’s mission is to reverse the damage we’re doing as much as is possible. 

What does food waste look like in Australia?

To put it simply, food waste costs our Australian economy around $20 billion each year. Think about the multitude of ways that money could be better spent - whether on renewable energy projects or cancer research - the opportunities to do better are endless. And that’s why Goterra is so determined to deliver positive outcomes for the Australian community.

Not only that, but each year, Australian households, farms and various businesses waste approximately 7.3 million tonnes of food! That’s about 300kg per person, per year. The numbers are disappointing, and shocking, to say the least. We need more future-focused, sustainably-minded businesses. There is simply no other option but change. 

Change is necessary right now

This major agricultural issue will affect the future of Australia sooner than later, hence why environmentally sustainable farming practices are more important now than ever before. The negative impact food waste is already having on our planet is one of the key areas Goterra aims to eradicate with the work that we do. 

We promise to do better by you. We envisage a future that is greener, cleaner and more sustainable for the longevity of our beautiful blue and green earth. The only way is up from here.