Daring diarists to cut food waste

Families across Greater Manchester have vowed to cut down on the amount of food they waste, after keeping diaries monitoring everything they throw out.

As part of a scheme supported by Manchester City Council, dozens of families kept two-week diaries earlier this year, recording every single scrap that went in their kitchen bins.

Eighty per cent of those who took part in the diary have said the experience changed their view on the amount of food they wasted, and they will now make every effort to cut back on what they throw out, while 70 per cent said it would be easy to reduce what they throw out.

The scheme was part of the national Love Food Hate Waste campaign, and was carried out by local authorities across the region along with the Greater Manchester Waste Disposal Authority.

Kathryn Greenough, from Rosina Street in Openshaw, said in her diary: "During the past two weeks, overall I've seen a big difference in the amount we put in the bin.

"I am just hoping it carries on, as it will take time to change but the children are enjoying the home compost and I know they will carry this task on. I spend less time shopping and I am not as tempted to get something for the sake of it."

Councillor Nigel Murphy, Manchester City Council's Assistant Executive Member for the Environment, said: "This was a brilliant project and I hope it will generate discussions as to what measures can be adopted to reduce the amount of food waste going into landfill."

Residents can take inspiration and pick up hints that could save them £100s over a year by viewing the diaries on: www.recycleforgreatermanchester.com