“When we waste what others desperately need, what are the ramifications to our physical hearts and our unity? . . . [W]hat does that do to the fabric that stretches between us as human beings?”
Sister Sharon Eubank
(That We May Be One, October 2019)
We share the Earth’s resources with our brothers and sisters, so minimizing how much we waste is an act of love. It’s also a way we can emulate the Lord. “Our Lord and God, as the Creator, wastes nothing; His system has no waste,” taught Sister Sharon Eubank.
We have a lot to learn from Him! In the United States, roughly 40 percent of food (an estimated 125 to 160 billion pounds) goes to waste—despite much of it being perfectly edible. This makes uneaten food the single largest component of municipal solid waste in the U.S. We can use our God-given resources more wisely, charitably, and gratefully.
Our invitation for March is to honor the Creator by reducing your food waste. We provide some resources, ideas, and questions in hopes of sparking inspiration, but it’s up to you what small, simple stewardship step you take this month:
- Purchase only the food you need. Preparing a shopping list before buying your groceries can help you avoid food waste.
- Use up the food you already have. Take the time to thoroughly peruse your fridge and pantry, and see what you can make with the surprises you find! Maybe you can share what you make with someone in need.
- Start composting your organic scraps. Does your city or neighborhood have community composting? Is there a spot in your yard you can begin a composting pile of your own? Is there space in your apartment for a vermicomposting bin? (For a laugh, scroll down on this page to read Josh Doying’s detailed guide on vermicomposting.)
- If you’re ready for a real challenge, try going a full week without creating food waste. Start practicing now and you’ll reduce food waste for years to come!
We hope these invitations help you cultivate a more Creation-friendly lifestyle, line upon line and precept upon precept. As you find your own way to be a better steward, share your inspired actions on social media—don’t forget to tag us and use both #EverySaintASteward and #SmallAndSimpleStewardship!