No Scrap Wasted was selected as our fourth solution last December. This initiative aims to redirect waste streams locally, ensuring that whatever resources are expended are fully utilized. Nationally and in our community, about a third of all food produced or imported is thrown away. Every carrot and cucumber represents the energy needed to produce it, the packaging material to make it saleable, the fuels used to transport it to market, and ultimately the refrigeration to keep it crisp until it is purchased. Cumulatively, this stream of resources represents much more than just a bunch of vegetables. If food scraps are returned to an Alaskan landfill, they will occupy space in a limited system and produce powerful greenhouse gases as they decompose. They will often be discarded alongside their plastic packaging.
Volunteers have now organized themselves into three main working groups, each playing a vital role. One group focuses on redirecting excess food to better feed our community and composting what can’t be eaten to grow more food. A second group works closely with local government, existing programs, and infrastructure to ensure reusable materials find new purpose and are recycled properly. The third group partners with experts to host engaging workshops that share resources for utilizing wild and cultivated foods around us. Your involvement can make a real difference in these efforts.
The No Scrap Wasted solution is still in its early stages, and we invite everyone in our community to join us as we forge ahead. Group members are coordinating with the Kenai Peninsula Resilience and Security Advisory Commission, Alaskans for Litter Prevention and Recycling, the Kenai Peninsula Borough, KPB Solid Waste department, and its contractors, Indigenous foodways experts, local artists, venues in the Homer area, small businesses, and all of us who love a good meal. We believe the most impactful and lasting change grows from a diversity of inputs.
Homer Drawdown meets monthly for a shared meal and work session, creating a welcoming space for community connection. All are encouraged to join us.
Visit inletkeeper.org/homer-drawdown for more information and ways to get involved.