Climate Connections The average U.S. family of four throws away $3,000 in groceries a year
Nov 18, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Sarah Burnett from ReFed, a nonprofit dedicated to tackling food waste, reveals that the average U.S. family of four tosses out a shocking $3,000 worth of groceries each year. She discusses how this waste doesn’t just hit the wallet but also contributes significantly to climate change through excess production and methane emissions. Sarah shares practical tips like menu planning and embracing leftovers to help families cut waste, save money, and lessen their environmental impact.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Food Waste Is A Hidden Climate And Cost Problem
- The average U.S. family of four wastes over $3,000 yearly on thrown-away food.
- Food waste increases production and transportation emissions, worsening climate change.
Everyday Examples Of Food Waste
- Sarah Burnett gives everyday examples like leftover restaurant meals and unused herbs that go bad.
- These common situations illustrate how easily households accumulate wasted food.
Plan Meals And Use Leftovers Weekly
- Plan menus and recipes to better estimate how much to buy and avoid excess.
- Make one night a week a leftovers night and freeze extra food within a few days.