Our Impact Methodology
Trust is the foundation of our mission. Here's exactly how we measure the environmental impact of every food rescue on GleanProof.
Our Principles
Verified Orders Only
We only count confirmed and completed rescue orders. Cancelled or expired orders are excluded from all impact calculations.
Conservative Estimates
We use lower-bound estimates from peer-reviewed sources. When ranges exist, we choose the conservative figure.
Transparent Methodology
Every formula and data source is published here. We believe transparency builds trust and accountability.
Continuous Improvement
As better data becomes available, we update our factors. Historical calculations are preserved for accuracy.
How We Calculate Impact
Food Weight Estimation
Based on USDA average meal weight data. Each rescued order prevents approximately 1.5 pounds of food from entering the waste stream.
CO₂ Emissions Factor
Food waste generates methane in landfills, a greenhouse gas 25x more potent than CO₂. Our factor accounts for production, transportation, and decomposition emissions.
Water Footprint
Food production is extremely water-intensive. When food is wasted, so is every gallon of water used to grow, process, and transport it.
Energy Savings
Energy used in farming, processing, refrigeration, and transportation is recovered when food reaches people instead of landfills.
Tree Equivalence
We convert CO₂ savings into tree equivalents to make impact tangible. One mature tree absorbs approximately 48 lbs of CO₂ annually.
The GleanProof Impact Formula
food_saved = orders_completed × 1.5 lbs
co2_prevented = food_saved × 3.8 lbs
water_saved = food_saved × 108 gallons
energy_saved = food_saved × 3.5 kWh
tree_equivalent = co2_prevented ÷ 48
Partner Network
We partner with local businesses committed to reducing food waste.
Local Bakeries & Cafés
Artisan bread, pastries, and prepared meals rescued daily
Restaurants & Kitchens
Surplus meals from professional kitchens
Grocery & Organic Markets
Fresh produce and packaged goods near expiry
Food Trucks & Pop-ups
Street food and event catering surplus