Reduce waste. The USDA's Economic Research Service estimates that our current food system produces approximately 3,800 calories per person per day and that roughly 1,100 of those calories are lost due to spoilage, plate waste, cooking, and other losses. What's more, organic matter emits methane when heaped in a landfill. In fact, landfills are second only to cattle in producing methane. In your garden, organic food matter can be composted into nitrogen-rich fertilizer, a process that doesn't create emissions. (For tips on how to start composting at home, turn to “Why Compost?” on page 50.)

Make a balanced choice: “Take a bit less,” says Geagan. At the grocery store, buy only what you need. Avoid the temptation of buy-one-get-one-free offers. At home, dole out smaller portions, eat leftovers, and compost food waste.

For more tips and recipes for lowering your food footprint, visit our Green Living archive.

Helen Olsson is a freelance writer based in Boulder, Colorado.