What Is Food Security?
Food security is simply defined as "having reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food."
Food inecurity is intrinsically linked to climate change. Many of the same groups that are most vulnerable to climate change also face the greatest rates of food insecurity. In particular, communities with food systems that depend on the biodiversity of the ecosystem, rather than on the commercial food market (i.e. some indigenous groups) face food shortages as climate change intensifies. Droughts, wildfires, floods, changing temperatures, and a loss of biodiversity can stunt agriculture and limit foraging.
Additionally, due to historically racist housing policies, some urban communities face greater rates of food insecurity today. These regions also face the most intense climate change-induced heat waves, and lack access to green spaces, fresh produce, and shade.
© Changing Planet Justice 2023. All rights reserved.
Turn Trash into Treasure: DIY Compost Bin
Can you believe that nearly â…“ of all food produced is wasted? Climate change is making the hunger crisis worse, yet food waste contributes significantly to climate change. By building a compost bin, you can reduce your own food waste and help save the planet at the same time.
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Compost bins turn organic waste into nutrient-rich soil, which reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. By diverting food scraps and yard waste from landfills, compost bins significantly decrease methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. Additionally, composting enriches soil, promotes healthier plant growth, and enhances the soil's ability to retain moisture, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient ecosystem.
How to Make a DIY Compost Bin
Creating your own compost bin is an easy and rewarding way to reduce food waste and nourish your garden. Follow these simple steps to build your own compost bin:
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Materials Needed:
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Large plastic or metal bin with a lid
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Drill
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Small bricks or wooden blocks
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Soil or finished compost
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Organic waste (food scraps, yard waste)
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Steps:
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Choose Your Bin: Select a large bin with a tight-fitting lid. A plastic storage container or a metal garbage can work well.
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Drill Holes: Using a drill, create several holes around the sides, bottom, and lid of the bin. These holes will provide ventilation and drainage for the compost.
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Elevate the Bin: Place the bin on small bricks or wooden blocks to allow for airflow underneath. This helps with drainage and prevents the bottom from becoming waterlogged.
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Start with a Base Layer: Add a layer of soil or finished compost to the bottom of the bin. This base layer introduces beneficial microorganisms that aid in the composting process.
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Add Organic Waste: Begin adding your organic waste to the bin. Alternate between green materials (food scraps, grass clippings) and brown materials (dry leaves, cardboard). Aim for a balanced mix of greens and browns to ensure proper decomposition.
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Maintain Your Compost: Regularly stir or turn the contents of the bin to aerate the compost and speed up the decomposition process. Add water if the compost looks dry, but avoid making it too soggy.
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Monitor and Adjust: Keep an eye on your compost bin. If it starts to smell bad, add more brown materials. If it's not decomposing well, add more green materials and turn it more frequently.
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Harvest Your Compost: After a few months, your compost should be dark, crumbly, and earthy-smelling. This means it's ready to be used in your garden. Remove the finished compost from the bottom of the bin and spread it in your garden beds or around your plants.
