How we reduce food waste together in the Brežice destination
Did you know that 1.3 billion tons of food are wasted globally every year? That’s about one-third of all food produced, while more than 730 million people suffer from hunger. But food waste isn’t just a moral issue – it’s an environmental one. When food ends up in landfills, it decomposes and releases methane, a greenhouse gas that is 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide.
If food waste were a country, it would be the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world, right after the USA and China. Producing, transporting, and storing food requires enormous amounts of water, energy, and land, which means every uneaten bite leaves a much bigger footprint than it seems.
Tips for visitors and hosts:
- Order according to your appetite
Don’t be afraid to ask for a smaller portion at restaurants or request a doggy bag if you can’t finish your meal. Local restaurants in Brežice are happy to support this practice. - Explore local – with respect
When visiting markets or farms, don’t overlook the “ugly” fruits and vegetables. They’re just as tasty and nutritious. In Slovenia, up to 40% of fruits and vegetables are wasted just because they don’t look perfect. - Plan smartly when cooking at your accommodation
If you’re preparing your own meals, plan in advance and avoid impulse buys. Store leftovers properly or share them with fellow travelers. - Compost whenever possible
Whether at home or in tourist facilities, organic waste should not end up in mixed trash. Composting is a natural way to return food to the earth.
A few numbers to reflect on:
Producing 1 kilogram of beef requires 15,000 liters of water.
The average household in Slovenia wastes 68 kilograms of food per year.
In Europe, 53% of food waste happens at the household level.
Halving global food waste could reduce emissions by 1.5 billion tons of CO₂ annually.
Together, we can make every bite count – for our health, our planet, and the guests who will follow in our footsteps.
Here in Brežice, we value sustainable choices – and we believe that every visitor can be part of the change.
