We live in a world where there’s more than enough food to feed everyone—1.5 times the amount needed, in fact. Yet, over 1.3 billion tons, or a third of all food produced, is wasted annually.
This waste fuels more than half of food system emissions and approximately 8% of total global greenhouse gases.
So that begs the question…
“How can food insecurity still exist when safe, edible food is being discarded on such a massive scale?”
This difficult truth is the heartbreaking reality for hundreds of millions of people across the globe. However, at NEST4US, we believe that no one should go to bed hungry while perfectly good food goes to waste. So, we decided to take action.
Yet over the years, as we’ve rescued and redistributed millions of pounds of food, we’ve realized that food waste isn’t just a hunger issue—it’s a climate issue, too.
Every time food is thrown away, all the resources that went into producing it—water, energy, land, labor—are wasted as well. On top of that, food that ends up in landfills releases methane, a greenhouse gas far more potent than carbon dioxide. This means reducing food waste isn’t just about feeding people: it’s about protecting our planet.
At NEST4US, through our NEST Nurtures program, we’ve built partnerships with private sector actors, academic institutions, and community organizations to rescue surplus food and redirect it directly into the hands of families in need. So far, this work has slashed over 3.5 million pounds of carbon emissions.
That’s not just statistics to us—it’s proof that people-powered impact works.
But here’s what makes this connection powerful: by reducing waste, we tackle not one, but TWO global challenges at once. We fight hunger by providing meals for those who need them most, but we ALSO fight climate change by reducing emissions tied to wasted food. It’s a win-win for people…and the planet!
This climate-hunger connection is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most urgent intersections of our time. Each of us can make a difference—whether that’s volunteering at a food rescue, composting at home, or being mindful about what we buy and eat. After all, small changes, when multiplied, can create a big impact.
For us at NEST4US, the fight against hunger and climate change goes hand in hand. Together, let’s build a world where food feeds people—not landfills.
—Shreyaa & Esha Venkat, NEST4US Founders, October 2025
