The Village of Oak Park | 123 Madison St.  Oak Park, IL 60302 | village@oak-park.us

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Oak Park looks to tackle problem of food waste

Nov. 1, 2019 – Oak Park is turning its focus to the problem of food waste, with residents invited to an upcoming film screening and workshop as part of the community’s Food Waste Awareness Week from November 3-9.

Experts estimate that as much as 40 percent of all food in the United States is wasted every year. To combat the issue, the Village is participating in two programs intended to help Oak Parkers become food waste warriors.

The first event is a screening of the film “Just Eat It,” which aims to change the way people buy, store, cook, compost and eat food. The screening will take place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 3 at the Oak Park Library, 834 Lake St.

The event is free, but registration is requested. Click here to reserve a space.

Residents are also invited to a Food Waste Workshop to learn about what is being done locally and regionally to address the problem of waste food. The workshop takes place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 7 at the Oak Park Library.

Village Sustainability Coordinator Mindy Agnew will be on hand during the event providing information about the Village’s compost program and helping residents sign up on the spot.

Click here to register for the free workshop.

Both events are organized by the Interfaith Green Network, which is working in tandem with other local sustainability organizations. The Interfaith Green Network is a faith-based sustainability initiative made up of 20 area congregations.

Last month the Village Board issued a proclamation declaring November 3-9 as Food Waste Awareness Week in Oak Park. The proclamation stemmed from a recommendation from the Village’s Environment and Energy Commission to raise awareness and provide education about the problem of wasted food.

Visit the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency website for tips on ways to reduce food waste at home.

For more information about sustainability efforts in Oak Park, contact sustainability@oak-park.us or 708.358.5778.