Food waste contributes significantly to climate change. When food is wasted ie. thrown out by grocery stores, wasted by consumers, etc. all of the energy, including water, is wasted. This includes growing, harvesting, packaging, and transporting. Not only is this energy wasted, but when certain foods rot they produce methane and contribute to greenhouse gases. According to worldwildlife.org, "About 6%-8% of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions could be reduced if we stop wasting food."

Climate change also affects if and how crops grow. Because of climate change, water levels have changed in certain regions, greatly impacting crops and their ability to grow. In some areas, water had decreased leading to drought and in others water has increased leading to flooding. Bread.org says "In the highlands of Guatemala, chronic malnutrition affects roughly sixty-five percent of a primarily agrarian population and out-migration to the United States is increasing due to extreme drought and flooding." Not only has water supply changed, but weather pattern has too. Plants who are accustomed to hot and dry weather are now facing constant natural disasters such as hurricanes and tornados.

While all of this information may seem overwhelming, you can do small things to help. In order to reduce food waste, buy only what you need and do not purchase in excess. Another way to combat food waste is to use your freezer to keep foods fresh for longer. Also make sure to eat leftovers, and not throw food out after only one meal. An easy way to eliminate your food waste is to compost your leftovers. In conclusion, food waste is related to climate change in many ways, but there are things you can do to help.