Food wastes, particularly during the Christmas season, are a contributing factor to global warming, according to Mr. Michael David, the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP) Climate and Environmental Advocate Team Lead.David made this statement on Monday in Abuja during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
For the unaware, methane, carbon dioxide (CO2), and chlorofluorocarbons are examples of greenhouse gases in excess that absorb infrared radiation and heat the earth's atmosphere, leading to climate change and global warming.
"Food waste is not only a financial waste but also harms the ecosystem because it increases global warming.
"Even with this circumstance, food waste during Christmas celebrations is quite concerning because a large portion of the food produced will go uneaten,” he stated.
David asked Nigerians to think about the energy and natural resources used in food preparation, transportation, storage, and preparation.
Methane, a more potent greenhouse gas than even CO2, is produced in vast quantities when food waste ends up in landfills.
Given that agriculture uses 70% of the water used worldwide and that many food products have excessive packaging, food waste also constitutes a significant waste of fresh water and groundwater resources.
Because the packaging is non-biodegradable and usually just gets thrown away, ending up in our landfills or on our streets as litter, there is a rising awareness that it is not environmentally friendly.
Additionally, David offered some advice on avoiding food waste.
"Feed someone else instead of throwing away delicious food. Sharing with others will bring you immense happiness.
"A lot of us don't think about how much food we throw away on a daily, weekly, monthly, and annual basis. During holidays like Christmas, there is an increase in the amount of food wasted.
According to him, "food waste in this context refers to food that is left over on your plate; too much prepared food that is not used all ends up in the dustbin or dumpsite."
David continued, saying that wasting food is truly an unfair mindset, especially in a country where some kids go days without eating.