Many of us will have at some point, put an unlabelled container of leftovers or the end of the packet of something in the freezer with the hopeful thought of “I’ll use that later”. If that’s you, you’re not alone!
Through the Food Use Places project, the Brighton & Hove Food Partnership has been working with 15 community organisations to explore practical ways to reduce food waste and cut down on unnecessary packaging. Inspired by their ideas and the habits they’re already trying out, we’ve gathered tips to help you make this Christmas greener, starting with your freezer.
Freezer Reset
There is no guarantee that food will ever come out of the freezer once it’s in there. Some of it inevitably gets thrown out when we need space for something new. Here’s some easy wins to try at home,
- Make a list
Go through one drawer/shelf at a time and write down what you have. Even a rough list is enough. If in doubt, chuck it out!
- Label it
This significantly increases the chance you’ll use it. We like to use masking tape as labels, so we know what it is and a date for when it was made/frozen.
- Organise
Group foods together as best as possible, so you know where to look when you want a portion of peas or a scoop of ice cream.
Get Creative, Not Wasteful
Your freezer should be a tool for convenience and preservation. With a little intention and a bit of creativity, you can reclaim that space, reduce waste, and head into Christmas with a freezer that works for you, not against you.
Top tips from our community champions
- “We plan your meals and shop smart”: Older people who regularly attend Hop 50+ café in Hove told us that writing a shopping list helps them resist supermarket deals that often make them buy more than they want.
- “Cook once, eat twice”. Chefs at the Community Kitchen recommend batch cooking and storing in portions, so you can have a quick meal without the prep. Try their Any Veg Curry.
- “Track your waste” Young people at Coombe Road primary have started keeping a note of what’s being thrown into their new food waste caddy at home, to help their families to avoid throwing away the same things again.
- “Turn scraps to compost by using your food waste collection.” X at .. has started recycling their food scraps
Gifting sustainably
We’re lucky in Brighton & Hove that we lots of charity shops full of pre-loved items which need a new home. Have a snoop around and find some mega bargains.
Our team have put together their annual Christmas food and gift guide with some local food suppliers, fundraising events, gift suggestions including books, memberships and so much more.
Ask the recipient what they may like or do a secret Santa to reduce the volume of presents being bought for your group.
Decorating sustainably
Create your own wreath from foraged items like pine comes and holy bush – remember to wear gloves and only cut what you need. Always check with the landowners before you take anything.
Buy a potted tree or one made from recycled plastic to use year after year to reduce your carbon footprint annually.
Make your own decorations – you could dry some citrus fruits in a low oven, tie with twine, hang up pinecones, cinnamon sticks or even make stars from twigs. Last year I made tinsel made from recycled clothes.
Remember your recycling
There are loads of great festive wrapping papers easily available in shop which are recyclable and even sellotape which is plastic free. Consider wrapping techniques which use less paper or reuse giftbags and boxes every year.
Remember to check out Brighton & Hove City Council’s website if you’re unsure of what can or can’t be recycled in the council curbside collections.
