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Facts About Food Waste in the UK

Important Facts: The Staggering Reality of Food Waste in the UK

As pioneers in commercial food waste management, Keenan Recycling is driven by its mission to create sustainable food waste disposal solutions and combat the staggering environmental impact of food waste. Today’s blog is dedicated to shedding light on the often-ignored yet pressing issue of food waste in the UK. We’ll reveal some astonishing facts and figures that showcase the issues and discuss the significance of adopting innovative food waste solutions in our collective quest for a greener future.

By raising awareness and understanding of the true extent of the food waste crisis, we can empower businesses and individuals alike to make informed choices and take decisive actions for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future. So, join us as we embark on an insightful exploration of the hidden world of food waste in the UK and learn how to make a lasting difference together!

Facts About Food Waste in the UK*:

  1. The UK produces an estimated 9.5 million tonnes of food waste every year.
  2. Around 70% of this waste is generated by households, while the remaining 30% comes from businesses like restaurants, hotels, care homes, and hospitals.
  3. A staggering ÂŁ19 billion is spent annually on managing and disposing of food waste.
  4. If food waste were a country, it would be the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases after China and the United States.
  5. Food waste in landfills produces methane, a greenhouse gas that is 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide.
  6. Nearly 50% of all global fruits and vegetables are wasted each year.
  7. In the UK, approximately 20 million slices of bread are thrown away daily.
  8. Around 920,000 tonnes of food waste is generated by the UK hospitality sector annually.
  9. UK supermarkets are responsible for generating around 300,000 tonnes of food waste every year.
  10. It takes 25 years for a head of lettuce to decompose in a landfill.
  11. Wasting a single burger is equivalent to wasting 90 litres of water, considering the resources required to produce it.
  12. The production of wasted food consumes approximately 1.4 billion hectares of land, about 28% of the world’s agricultural area.
  13. The energy wasted on producing, transporting, and disposing of uneaten food globally could power the entire United Kingdom for more than two months.
  14. Approximately 7 million tonnes of food and drink, which is still safe for consumption, is wasted by UK households each year.
  15. In the UK, the food and drink industry is responsible for 20% of the country’s total water footprint.

*Statistics sourced from WRAP – https://wrap.org.uk/

Commercial Food Waste Management: A Key Player in Tackling Food Waste

We understand the importance of managing food waste effectively at Keenan Recycling, so we offer a nationwide commercial food waste collection service. Our services cover a range of businesses, including restaurants, hotels, care homes, hospitals, prisons, waste management companies, brokers, and councils. By employing state-of-the-art technology, we ensure that food waste is converted into valuable resources like biogas, which can be used for electricity, heat, or even biofuel for transport.

Join the sustainable revolution in Wrexham! Take a step towards reducing food waste and promoting a circular economy by partnering with Keenan Food Waste Recycling Services in Wrexham. Together, we can make a positive impact on the environment and create a more sustainable future. Contact us today to learn more and get started.

Food Waste Recycling UK: The Benefits

  • Reduces greenhouse gas emissions by diverting waste from landfills
  • Conserves resources by transforming waste into renewable energy and fertilisers
  • Helps businesses comply with environmental regulations and meet sustainability goals
  • Supports the UK’s circular economy by creating jobs in the recycling sector

food waste recycling benifits

Food Waste Reduction Strategies for Businesses

  1. Implementing portion control and menu planning to minimise over-preparation
  2. Donating surplus food to local food banks or charities
  3. Regularly monitoring food waste levels and setting reduction targets
  4. Training staff on proper food storage and handling techniques to prolong shelf life

Conclusion

The facts about food waste in the UK are truly eye-opening, but we can make a difference with the right strategies and solutions. At Keenan Recycling, we’re proud to be at the forefront of sustainable food waste disposal, providing businesses with the support they need to minimise their environmental impact. 

Make a difference in Newport by embracing sustainable practices with Keenan Food Waste Recycling Services in Newport. Together, let’s divert organic waste from landfills, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to a greener future. Contact us today to learn more about our reliable and eco-friendly food waste recycling solutions. Act now and be part of the solution!

Are you a business owner or manager looking to implement effective food waste solutions? Look no further! Keenan Recycling is your trusted partner in commercial food waste management. Let us help you reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Get in touch with our team today for a free, no-obligation quote, and let’s start making a difference together!

To request your quote, simply fill out our online quote form, and our team will be in touch with you shortly. Alternatively, you can contact us directly at 0800 644 6618 or info@keenanrecycling.co.uk. Don’t wait any longer – join the movement towards a greener and more sustainable future with Keenan Recycling today!