One of the simplest yet impactful steps we can take to reduce the waste going to landfill is separating food waste at home. By diverting food scraps from regular trash, we can unlock its potential for composting or proper disposal, minimizing environmental impact. 


Understand What Can be Separated:
Before diving into the process, it's important to know which food waste items can be separated. Generally, any organic matter that comes from food can be included. This includes fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, tea bags, eggshells, leftover cooked food, and spoiled produce. Most municipal governments will collect meat, dairy products, and oily foods, but these might not be suitable for backyard composting and require alternative disposal methods.

Set Up a Dedicated Container:
To separate food waste efficiently, designate a compost bin that seals odor and fits comfortably in your kitchen. Consider using a compostable or biodegradable bag to line the container, making it easier to dispose of the waste later. 

Educate Your Household:
Ensure that everyone in your household understands the importance of separating food waste and knows what can and cannot be included. By educating your family members or roommates, you'll create a collaborative effort toward waste reduction. Encourage them to make a conscious effort to scrape plates, collect food scraps, and dispose of them in the dedicated container instead of the regular trash.

Implement Proper Sorting Techniques:
To avoid potential odors and pest issues, it's crucial to sort the food waste correctly. Here's a simple step-by-step process:

a. Scrape: After meals, scrape leftover food scraps into a compostable bag or directly into the designated container. Use a spatula or scraper to remove any stuck-on bits.

b. Store: Close the lid, and stow it away. This helps prevent fruit flies and keeps your kitchen clean and fresh.

c. Empty: Depending on your local regulations and facilities available, empty the food waste container regularly. You can transfer the contents to an outdoor compost pile, a municipal green waste bin, or a designated compost collection service in your area.

By separating food waste at home, you're taking a meaningful step towards reducing landfill waste and contributing to a greener planet. With an odorless, convenient container, proper sorting techniques, and an understanding of composting options, you can easily incorporate this practice into your daily routine. Bonus point - the rest of your garbage will stay clean and odorless, too!