Ever filled your cart and then ended up tossing more into the bin? You're not alone — but in Greece, it's on a whole different level. In 2023, EU families threw away 58.2 million tonnes of food, and households were responsible for 53% of that. Greece leads with a staggering 201 kg of food discarded per person, compared to the EU average of 130 kg. 😱🍽️
What's shocking is this waste comes even as people tighten their belts: 11.3% of residents of Greece say they can't afford a proper meal at least every other day, above the EU average of 8.5%. With empty plates on one side and overflowing bins on the other, it highlights a stark contradiction. 💔
So why is this happening? Factors range from buying habits (bulk deals that tempt us to overbuy) to cultural norms around hospitality and meal prep. Sound familiar? Many of us in South Asia and Southeast Asia know the value of leftovers and creative cooking — think desi-style biryani reheated into kebab rolls or Southeast Asian curries transformed into noodle stir-fries. 🙌👩🍳
Tech-savvy solutions are emerging: from community food-sharing groups on social media to city-run compost programs. By planning meals, shopping smart—like making a simple list—and sharing excess with neighbours or local charities, we can chip away at waste. It's a small shift with big impact: less trash, lower bills, and more meals for those in need. ♻️💡
Next time you stock up, think beyond the cart: can those extras be repurposed, shared, or composted? Your wallet—and the planet—will thank you. 🌍✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
