Program on the Environment

Food waste and hunger are interconnected systemically and is a major problem in America. As more and more food is produced, more food does not end up on tables especially for those who are in need. For low income households, the environment may not be a top priority for everyday life. The purpose of this study was to investigate if the environment is, in fact, a priority for low income households and to investigate common knowledge and practices of food waste. Surveys on the environment and food waste were conducted at four food bank sites: Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, and Shoreline. Hopelink, a non profit that fights against poverty, run these four food banks and serves diverse low income households. These surveys ask general concern for the environment and food waste habits. Results show that Hopelink clients have a strong concern for the environment but face barriers to reduce household food waste such as unique living conditions and access to composting. Low income food bank clients at these Hopelink sites reveal that the concern for the environment is generally linked to the jeopardy of one’s health. With further research, organizations such as Hopelink can understand the barriers that low income households face and find ways to educate and empower their clients to become stewards of the environment.