At FoodMesh, we are dedicated to creating the most accurate and transparent measures of the impact we’re having on reducing food waste and the associated greenhouse gas emissions (CO2e). As part of this commitment, we’ve updated our methodology for calculating CO2e emissions saved through the diversion of surplus food to reflect the latest research. 

Why the update?

Our CO2e emissions saved metric has always been based on ReFED’s greenhouse gas (GHG) conversion factors for surplus food. These factors model the CO2e emissions generated by food at every stage of its lifecycle, from production to disposal, and vary depending on food type and where it ends up (e.g., for human consumption, animal feed, compost, or landfill).

ReFED recently updated its data in September 2024, which led us at FoodMesh to reassess and revise our own calculations. We’ve not only incorporated ReFED’s latest conversion factors, but we’ve also refined our approach to better reflect the changing destinations of the food we divert. This change improves the accuracy of our calculations and ensures that we continue to provide reliable, data-driven insights into the environmental benefits of food recovery.

What’s changed in the methodology?

Previously, FoodMesh used a single blended conversion factor of 2.58 to estimate the CO2e emissions saved across all types of food and destinations. This factor was based on our historical product mix and destination data, providing a simple but less precise estimate of our impact.

With the updated methodology, we now use three specific conversion rates based on the destination of the food surplus:

• Charity donations: 3.36
• Animal feed (farm): 0.46
• Compost: 0.75

By breaking down the conversion factor by destination, we can now calculate CO2e emissions saved more accurately. While our product mix remains relatively stable, the destinations where surplus food ends up (charities, farms, or composting facilities) can vary over time, making this a more precise way to capture the emissions reductions we’re achieving.

Old vs. new calculation

• Old methodology: Total weight diverted x 2.58
• New methodology: Charity weight x 3.36 + Farm weight x 0.46 + Compost weight x 0.75

Why does this matter?

This update means we can better reflect the environmental benefits of food recovery. By diverting surplus food away from landfill (where it would generate significant methane emissions), we’re helping to avoid the greenhouse gases associated with the food’s production, transportation, and disposal. The revised methodology gives a more accurate picture of these savings, demonstrating the continued positive impact of our programs.

Frequently asked questions

1. Why did FoodMesh update its methodology?
   We constantly review our impact metrics to ensure they’re aligned with the latest research. ReFED’s updated GHG conversion factors prompted us to refine our calculations for greater accuracy.
2. What are ReFED conversion factors?
   These factors allow us to convert metric tons of surplus food into metric tons of CO2e. They account for the emissions generated at various stages of the food’s lifecycle—such as production, storage, and distribution—depending on the food type and its final destination.
3. How do we calculate “CO2e emissions avoided”?
   This metric calculates the difference between the CO2e emissions generated by diverting food to its highest end-use (charity, animal feed, compost) and the emissions that would have been generated if the food had gone to landfill.
4. Is the methodology change retroactive?
   Yes, we will recalculate the emissions saved since our inception using the new methodology, ensuring a consistent and accurate view of our impact over time.

At FoodMesh, we remain committed to transparency and continuous improvement in how we measure our environmental impact. We believe that updating our CO2e emissions calculation methodology is not only the right step for accuracy, but it also aligns with our vision of reducing food waste and its harmful effects on the planet. We will continue to review and refine our methodology to ensure it remains the most accurate.